Examination of the processability of 16MnCr5 by means of laser powder bed fusion

Additive manufacturing, especially Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), allows the build-up of complex parts. Therefore, LPBF is already used in multiple fields, such as automotive or aerospace industry. To promote the wide spread use of AM within the automotive sector materials such as case hardening steels have to be available due to their use in drivetrain parts e.g. gears and shift forks. In this contribution, the processing capability of case hardening steel 16MnCr5 (1.7131) via LPBF is examined. Results of parameter variations are presented. Analyses show that relative densities of above 99.5 % are achievable. The interlayer bonding of specimen manufactured with varied laser power at a constant energy density and with varied scan patterns was investigated. Occurring surface roughness was derived from tilted specimen and contour exposure variants were compared.