Effects of Heat Treatment on Additively Manufactured 316L Stainless Steel

Abstract

The microstructure and mechanical properties of selectively laser melting (SLM)-manufactured 316L stainless steele were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, tensile testing at ambient temperature and Charpy impact test. These samples were compared with as-built samples. Following heat treatment conditions were used: 500 °C for 2/4 hours, 650 °C for 2 hours and 900 °C for 1 hour. Cooling took place in furnace and in furnace with opened valve. Compared to as built samples the heat treatment at lower temperature negatively influenced elongation but increased the amount of energy absorbed by material during fracture.