Evaluation of mechanical properties and energy absorption of Ti-6Al-4V gyroid structures produced by PBF-LB
摘要
This research investigates the effect of local geometry (size, number of cells, thickness, isovalue) and heat treatment on the observed modulus and strength of Ti-6Al-4V gyroid-based cellular structures under compressive loading. Manufacturability of the gyroid structures is examined and a novel geometric implementation is discussed that potentially allows for support-free manufacture. This experimental data promotes commercial applications by providing previously unavailable insight into the sensitivity of local geometry and heat treatment on mechanical response. The study of the effect of heat treatment on the compression response of the gyroid structures reveals the as-manufactured and stress-relieved states unsuitable for energy absorption applications, while significant improvement in ductility for parts processed above the β-transus temperature, resulting in full densification without fragmentation; with energy absorption efficiency increasing from 58% for the as-manufactured sample to 75% for the above β-transus specimens. The gyroid structures displayed fundamentally different responses for stiffness and strength with relative density suggesting possible benefits for energy absorption applications.