Microstructural Characterization and Mechanical Performance of Hot Work Tool Steel Processed by Selective Laser Melting

Microstructural characterization of hot work tool steel processed by selective laser melting was carried out. The findings shed light on the interrelationship between processing parameters and the microstructural evolution. It was found that the microstructure after layer-wise processing partially consists of metastable-retained austenite which transforms to martensite in a subsequent tensile test. This improves the mechanical properties of the hot work tool steel enabling direct application. (C) The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society and ASM International 2015