Fundamental Investigation of the Interface Formation of Multi-material Additive Manufactured 316L-CuSn10 Structures

Abstract The combination of the design freedom offered by metal additive manufacturing with multi-metallic capabilities offers the opportunity to fabricate new advanced components for a number of high value industries. However, a deep understanding of the interface is required to be confident in their functionality. In this study, a methodical approach is developed to study the interfacial properties of a combined 316L and CuSn10 structure. A Schaeffler Aerosint selective powder deposition recoater is used for the co-deposition of 316L and CuSn10 powders. The use of XRD depth profiling to capture data throughout the interface is related to microscopy to elucidate the mechanisms associated to the interface formation, giving insights into how 316L and CuSn10 bond not previously reported. These observations are coupled to thermodynamic modelling to explain the nature of the hot cracks which form at the interface. This methodology provides a detailed insight into the interface of a multi-metallic additive manufactured part, emphasizing the importance of a stepped approach to phase identification and its value to support thermodynamic calculations. Consequently, following this methodology for other material combinations will provide a deep understanding of the interfacial properties aiding in the production of functional components.