Wetting and Spreading of AgCuTi on Selective Laser-Melted Ti-6Al-4V

Selective laser melting (SLM) can be used to manufacture complex parts, however, it is difficult to make large parts due to the size limitation of the SLM equipment. In application, smaller selective laser-melted (SLMed) Ti-6Al-4V (TC4) parts can be brazed or welded to form larger components. In the brazing, AgCuTi is often used to braze TC4. However, the wettability of AgCuTi on the SLMed TC4 should be evaluated before joining the SLMed TC4 parts. As a result, wetting and spreading tests and brazing experiments should be undertaken to successfully join the SLMed TC4 parts. In this study, a LINKAM TS 1500 high-temperature hot stage was used to test the brazability of the AgCuTi on the surface of SLMed TC4. Different temperatures and dwell times were used: (i) 850 degrees C 900 degrees C and 950 degrees C, holding for 120 s, were used to study the temperature effects; (ii) 20 s, 120 s and 200 s were used at 850 degrees C to study the dwell time effects. The R similar to t model was used to describe the wetting and spreading process. The results of this study can provide basic data for the joining of SLMed TC4 in industry.

Automated summary

Selective laser melting (SLM) is suitable for manufacturing complex parts, but faces challenges when making large parts. Small SLMed TC4 parts can be joined together through brazing or welding. Evaluation of the wettability of AgCuTi on SLMed TC4 surface is essential before joining, and wetting and spreading tests must be conducted.