Influence on the Bead Geometry in Laser Metal Deposition with Wire

Laser metal deposition with wire (LMD-w) is a promising additive manufacturing technology, which attracts interest due to the low waste of material, the flexible application possibilities along the production chain and the improved metallurgical properties compared to powder-based processes. However, the complex handling of the technology and the resulting low process stability inhibit the broad industrial application. In particular, the varying bead geometry prevents automation and series production. To improve the geometric accuracy, it is necessary to understand influencing parameters. For this purpose, a parameter study is carried out in the present work. Different combinations of laser power, wire feed rate, traverse speed and welding angle are set, and the deposited beads are evaluated in terms of height and width. A factorial design experiment with the Box-Behnken was used to analyse and understand the interaction of these parameters on the deposited beads.