Abstract Scope |
Wire-arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) has emerged as an efficient and cost-effective technique for fabricating complex metallic components. This study investigates the relationship between process parameters—specifically, heat input, wire feed rate, and interlayer temperature—and the properties of WAAM-produced components. The research systematically evaluates bead geometry, microstructure, defect distribution, and mechanical properties through rigorous experimentation. Post-heat treatment effects on microstructural and mechanical properties are also assessed. Microstructural analyses using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray micro-computed tomography reveal grain structure, phase distribution, and defects such as porosity and microcracks. Mechanical properties, including hardness, tensile strength, and fatigue resistance, are rigorously tested to determine structural integrity and performance under various loading conditions. The study’s findings enhance the understanding of the WAAM process, providing valuable insights for optimizing process parameters to achieve desired properties in additively manufactured components. |