3D thermal finite element analysis of laser cladding processed Ti-6Al-4V part with microstructural correlations

In this study, a 3D thermal model of laser cladding by powder injection applied to Ti-6Al-4V is developed. The manufactured part is made of a Ti-6Al-4V substrate on which successive layers of laser melted powder are added, leading to a thick deposit. The computed temperature field and its time evolution are compared to experimental measurements. The temperature distribution in the substrate allows the prediction of the depths of the melt pool and the heat affected zone. Correlations between simulated thermal histories and the final microstructure in the thick deposit are established, leading to the enhancement of a dynamic shift of the critical transformation points due to high thermal rates during laser processing. The nature of the phases present within the deposit is discussed.