Parametric Optimization of Selective Laser Melted 13Ni400 Maraging Steel by Taguchi Method

Abstract

This study’s novel 13Ni400 maraging steel parts are additively manufactured through a selective laser melting process. The Taguchi approach is adopted to evaluate the combined influence of process variables (energy density), viz., laser power, layer thickness, hatch spacing, and scan speed, on responses like relative density, microhardness, surface roughness, and tensile strength. The powder and material characterization studies are conducted in terms of an optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and fractography analysis to explore the pre- and post-fabrication scenarios of the build parts. The consequences of energy density and process variables are studied through meticulous parametric studies. Finally, the optimum level of built parameters is identified and validated by a confirmative test predicting an average error of ~1.80%. This work is proficient in producing defect-free parts with maximum densification and improved mechanical properties for newly developed 13Ni-400 maraging steel by the selective laser melting (SLM) technique.