Optimizing the selective laser melting molding process for TC4 spatial mesh structures

Abstract

Advanced forming manufacturing technology is developing toward high efficiency, low energy consumption, green environmental protection, and precision, which promotes the development trend of high-strength and lightweight metal structural materials. This study employs the selective laser melting technology to form a periodic spatial lattice structure model with optimal load-bearing capacity by using TC4 as the experimental material to prepare experimental samples. Using orthogonal tests, loading tests, and metallographic structure analysis methods, the influence of different combinations of laser power, scanning speed, and support form on the mechanical properties of different weight reduction scale models is explored. When the SLM laser power is 290 W, the scanning speed is 900 mm/s, and the volume support is 3, the process combination has the best load-bearing capacity when forming periodic spatial mesh structure models with different weight reduction ratios (30 %, 50 % and 70 %).