Research about SLM 3D printing-M300 maraging steel surface and post-processing characteristics

Abstract This study focuses on an investigation of the M300 maraging steel powder and improving the surface by using tumbling for the printed parts for the purpose of gaining deeper insights into the characteristics of printed maraging steel components, with the aim of enhancing its use in practical applications such as aerospace, energy, automotive, and medical industries. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and backscattered electrons (BSE) were used to examine the morphology of the powder. The particle size distribution of the powder (PSD) is next examined for the original powder. Furthermore, an optical technique is used to measure the porosity of the powder. This analysis revealed porosity ranging from 0.04 to 0.12%, with a mean value of 0.07% for both parallel and perpendicular sections. The microstructure was examined. Finally, the post-processing stage was examined after tumbling for 480 min, which yielded a huge improvement in surface area (Ra = 0.26 µm and Rz = 2.08 µm) for 2D surface roughness and (Sa = 0.35 µm, Sp = 5.98 µm, Sv = 15.44 µm, and Sz = 21.42 µm) for 3D roughness measurements. The surface topography and morphology images were evaluated. An assessment was conducted on the chemical composition of the printed parts. In addition, the surface wettability was examined and shown to exhibit wetting behavior (under 90°).