Cold metal transfer WAAM of aluminum alloys: influence of processing parameters
摘要
The cold metal transfer-based wire arc additive manufacturing (CMT-based WAAM) technique is one of the novel technologies that utilize the wire-feed additive manufacturing (AM) procedure. In recent years, the utilization of CMT welding techniques for the fabrication of metallic components has attracted lots of research interest among the committee of researchers, as this technology allows accurate process control, lower heat input, minimal spatter, and enhanced control over the welding process for fabrication of near-net shape components via the layer-by-layer manufacturing process. Due to the efficacy of this technique, it has been widely used to produce metallic components with structural integrity for structural applications using aluminum alloy materials. Considering the impact of CMT-based WAAM technologies potential (such as spatter-free, low heat input with a low current during the short circuit, precise control mechanism, a faster cooling rate) and its practical application in industry, the review of this magnificent technology is very crucial for the fabrication of lightweight structure which is relevant to structural applications. This article reviews the potential of CMT-based WAAM technologies for the development of aluminum alloy components in shaping the future of the automotive and aeronautical industry which requires structural components usage. Finally, this work further documents the significant impact of selecting optimum process parameters for the CMT-based WAAM process to enhance the mechanical and microstructure properties of aluminum alloy parts.