Influence of standoff distance and laser defocusing distance on direct laser metal deposition of a nickel-based superalloy

Abstract The direct laser metal deposition (DLMD) is an additive manufacturing technology, based on cladding, which focuses mainly 3D applications. DLMD allows the production of thin-walled components by overlaying single-track depositions. Several issues can affect process and compromise flatness surface subsequent tracks will be deposited. This work focused troubles simulated means a designed variation standoff distance defocusing distance. effects these two important parameters were investigated. experimental tests performed depositing nickel-based superalloy powder AISI 304 stainless steel plates through coaxial nozzle. was carried out using ytterbium fiber source head equipped with advanced innovative motorized optics system. decoupled consequently spot size substrate respect to Results showed influence geometrical characteristics clad, such as clad width, height, penetration depth, dilution. An setup consisting light flow laterally positioned camera investigate spatial distribution. Moreover, analytical model for distribution width proposed validated. analysis variance (ANOVA) general linear also employed describe results.