Precipitation in a 2xxx series Al-Cu-Mg-Zr alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion

• Precipitation-strengthened 2xxx Al alloys but show solidification cracking issues during AM Equiaxed, crack-free microstructures achieved in a model AlCuMg alloy by adding Zr. Strengthening S-Al 2 CuMg and L1 -Al 3 Zr precipitates after three-step heat treatment. S- -phase characterized microhardness compression testing. The processing of conventional laser-based additive manufacturing can be challenging, particularly for prone to hot cracking. However, offers the possibility produce novel with improved properties, which cannot other methods. Although several studies have demonstrated positive influence addition on crack prevention tailored manufacturing, its formation strengthening alloys, remains largely unexplored. This work investigates microstructure Zr-modified AlCuMgZr fabricated laser powder bed fusion, particular emphasis precipitation phases induced post-processing treatment, their effects mechanical properties. successfully allows consolidation crack-free, dense material (>99.5%). is fine, equiaxed grains (0.5–3 μm) result from Zr-induced grain nucleation, boundary covered eutectic CuMg. After optimized nm-sized as well rods strengthen alloy, lead microhardness, young's modulus yield strength ∼1410 MPa, ∼82 GPa ∼340 respectively. results provide basis understanding further development manufacturing.