Micro Cutting of Ti-6Al-4V Parts Produced by SLM Process

Parts produced by Selective Laser Melting (SLM) presents a roughness due to thickness of fusion layers but also to partially sintered particles stuck to the edge of the parts. In order to ensure a finished product with the dimensional and structural requirements of an industrial part, a post processing by machining is necessary. The aim of the proposed study is to compare the machinability of Ti-6Al-4 V obtained by SLM process and that of a cast alloy. Micro-cutting tests are conducted to examine the effect of operating conditions on cutting forces, chip formation and on surface and sub-surface microstructure.