In a significant stride for the maritime and aerospace industries, researchers have delved into the mechanical and electrochemical properties of the IN 718 alloy, a material increasingly adopted in these sectors. The study, led by Pooja G. Thorat from the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management at Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology in Bangalore, India, was recently published in ‘Engineering Reports’ (which translates to ‘Engineering Reports’ in English).
The IN 718 alloy is prized for its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance, making it a popular choice for marine and aerospace applications. However, its performance can be significantly influenced by the manufacturing process, particularly when using advanced techniques like selective laser melting (SLM). This study aimed to optimize the SLM process to enhance the alloy’s mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
The research team employed the Taguchi method, a statistical approach used to optimize processes, to analyze four key variables in the SLM process: laser power, scan speed, laser beam spot size, and layer thickness. They found that laser power had the most significant impact on the mechanical performance of the printed parts. Interestingly, the optimal conditions for ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and micro-hardness (MH) were different, highlighting the complexity of the process.
Using a super ranking method, the team determined that the optimized SLM conditions resulted in impressive MH and UTS values of 344.8 HV and 1051.2 MPa, respectively. These findings were experimentally validated, providing a robust basis for future applications.
The study also delved into the corrosion behavior of the optimized SLM-processed IN 718 alloy. By evaluating the alloy’s performance in a 0.1 M H2SO4 solution with varying NaCl concentrations, the researchers found that adding 0.7 M NaCl provided the highest inhibition activity. This suggests that optimized SLM-processed IN 718 alloy parts can significantly enhance corrosion resistance in acidic environments, a critical factor for maritime applications.
As Pooja G. Thorat explained, “The addition of 0.7 M NaCl to 0.1 M H2SO4 provided the highest inhibition activity for IN 718 alloy, indicating that printed optimized parts can enhance its corrosion resistance in acidic environments.”
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. By optimizing the SLM process, manufacturers can produce IN 718 alloy parts with superior mechanical properties and enhanced corrosion resistance. This can lead to more durable and reliable components for marine and aerospace applications, reducing maintenance costs and improving safety.
Moreover, the insights gained from this study can guide the development of new manufacturing processes and materials, opening up opportunities for innovation in the maritime sector. As the industry continues to evolve, such advancements will be crucial in meeting the demands for high-performance, corrosion-resistant materials.
In summary, this research represents a significant step forward in understanding and optimizing the IN 718 alloy for maritime and aerospace applications. The findings published in ‘Engineering Reports’ provide valuable insights for manufacturers and researchers alike, paving the way for more efficient and effective use of this versatile material.