Fabrication of Gradient Structures in the Ni - Al System via SLM Process

There exists an actual need to generate gradient and laminar structures of the nickel superalloys reinforced by the nickel aluminides which can be used for production of components and elements for the rocket-space technology. At present study we propose a new approach to the layered synthesis of intermetallide phases of the NixAly type and gradient of mechanical properties in the obtained laminar structures. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the possibility of producing NixAly intermetallic phases in remelting powder mixtures in the course of the single-step SLM process. Besides, relationships between the main laser influence parameters and the intermetallic phase structures of the built-up objects were studied. In our research we applied optical microscopy, X-ray analysis, microhardness measurement and SEM with EDX analysis of the laser-fabricated intermetallics.