Feedstock Characterization for LMDp Process Repair (FEEDER)

Purpose and goal:

The purpose of FEEDER project is to enhance the understanding of the impact of feedstock characteristics on mechanical properties of Ti6Al4V builds through the LMDp process. This knowledge will contribute to developing powder specification, optimizing the selection and control of feedstock powders, and ultimately improving the quality, reliability, and performance of Ti6Al4V repairs produced using the LMDp technique.

The three primary goals are: 1. Understand Feed stock Characteristics 2. Build Small-Scale Specimens 3. Assess Impact on Mechanical Properties Expected results and effects:

Investigating the properties of Ti6Al4V powders early in the process, the project seeks to reduce lead times in later stages of additive manufacturing (AM), ultimately improving efficiency.

It contributes to developing precise powder specifications , ensuring the desired properties of manufactured components through AM.

This project enhances knowledge about feedstock procurement and supports collaboration between academia and industry and aims to share its findings through scientific publications and integrate the results into industry best practices for LMDp repairs. Approach and implementation: The FEEDER project is organized into four work packages (WP),

WP1: Project Management WP2: Procurement and Analysis of Feedstock Powders involves procuring and analyzing Ti-6Al-4V feedstock powders. WP3: Characterization of Feedstock Powders WP4: Production and Mechanical Performance of AM Parts

The key activities include optimizing the LMDp process, porosity evaluation, microstructure, and inclusion analysis of the produced parts. Further, conducting tensile tests using micro-test samples and hardness measurements on produced builds and repairs.