Influence of electron beam modulation on deposition characteristics in directed energy deposition–electron beam additive manufacturing (DED-EB) of titanium

Abstract Directed energy deposition–electron beam (DED-EB) additive manufacturing is a highly promising process for the fabrication of titanium components, offering high deposition rates and precise process control under vacuum conditions. However, optimizing the deposition characteristics, such as dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and layer uniformity, remains a key challenge, partly due to the complex dynamics of heat input and melt pool behavior. This study examines the influence of electron beam modulation on these deposition characteristics by systematically varying beam deflection parameters, including frequency and pattern, during the wire-based additive manufacturing of titanium. The effects of beam modulation on wire melting, melt pool stability, layer formation, and overall build geometry were thoroughly evaluated. The results demonstrate that carefully controlled electron beam modulation enables significant improvements in deposition stability, surface finish, and control over geometric features, thereby enhancing process reliability and enabling the production of near-net-shape titanium components. Notably, a parameter set consisting of a circular beam deflection at an oscillation frequency of 500Hz and an overfocus setting of + 40 mA effectively minimized surface ripples and waviness, thereby enhancing process stability and yielding defect-free components. These insights contribute to advancing DED-EB as a viable solution for applications where high geometric accuracy and process efficiency are demanded.