Properties evolution of additive manufacture used tungsten powders prepared by radio frequency induction plasma

In this study, radio frequency induction plasma was adopted to improve tungsten powder properties to meet the requirements of additive manufacturing process. After plasma spheroidization process operated, tungsten particles changed from irregular shape to uniform spherical shape. The average size and oxygen content of raw tungsten powders were both decreased, meanwhile, the laser absorption coefficient was increased by plasma spheroidization process. Furthermore, a series of tests were carried out for raw and spherical tungsten powders to investigate the influence of plasma spheroidization process on powder flowability evolution. The results displayed that, plasma spheroidized powders had a better comprehensive flowability, such as basic flow property, aerated flow property, compressibility, permeability and shear property, comparing to raw tungsten powders. In conclusion, plasma spheroidized tungsten powders met demands of additive manufacturing process very well.