Mechanical Analysis of ER70S-6 Wire in Pulsed Additive Manufacturing

Objective: To investigate the influence of temperature on the behavior of carbon precipitation on the contact surface between the base plate and the layers deposited by additive manufacturing using pulsed electric arc. Theoretical Framework: Additive manufacturing (AM) allows the creation of parts through the successive deposition of material in layers, with advantages such as raw material savings and the possibility of manufacturing complex or customized geometries — aspects that make it a promising alternative compared to traditional processes. However, in AM of metals by pulsed electric arc, the high temperatures required generate significant heat transfers, influencing microstructures and local properties. Method: The consumable AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 was used. The mechanical characterization was performed by means of the Vickers microhardness test, and the structural evaluation by metallographic analyses. Results and Discussion: The microhardness tests indicated that the base material and the deposited material have similar hardness. Metallographic analyses revealed a distinct band near the heat-affected zone, suggesting structural variations in this region, possibly related to carbon precipitation. Research implications: Understanding the thermal influence on carbon precipitation contributes to the improvement of process parameters in pulsed-arc additive manufacturing, aiming at better microstructural control and mechanical performance of the parts produced. Originality/value: This study addresses a specific and little-explored aspect in pulsed-arc metal additive manufacturing: carbon precipitation at the interface between base material and deposited layers, offering relevant experimental data for process optimization and quality control.