An integrated simulation approach for directing the texture control of austenitic stainless steel through laser beam powder bed fusion

Abstract

Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) technology has demonstrated the capability to print products with unique properties by precisely controlling texture. However, understanding the mechanisms governing texture evolution and developing efficient control strategies remain significant challenges, particularly in inter-track texture control. This study addresses these gaps by proposing a novel simulation approach that integrates finite element modeling to track temperature changes and phase field modeling to simulate texture evolution. Through simulation, the inter-track remelting mechanism was revealed, fundamentally explaining texture evolution in PBF-LB and providing a new strategy for precise texture control. The results demonstrated that hatch distance, closely linked to the inter-track overlap ratio and texture type, is the most effective parameter for tailoring texture, unlocking new potential for inter-track texture modulation. This study marks the first use of phase field simulation to guide texture control in PBF-LB, offering a transformative understanding of texture evolution mechanisms. By validating the predictive capability and reliability of the developed simulation approach through experiments, this work provides a robust framework for optimizing texture control in additive manufacturing.