Magnetic Performance of Fe-Si-B Amorphous Ribbons: A Precursor Alloy for Additive Manufacturing of Soft Magnetic Components

This study investigates the magnetic behavior of Fe-Si-B amorphous ribbons with varied compositions, emphasizing their suitability for future additive manufacturing (AM) of soft magnetic components. The work aims to identify compositional ranges offering optimal soft magnetic properties. Magnetic characterization was carried out using both DC and AC measurement techniques. DC magnetization curves measured by vibrating sample magnetometry revealed consistent saturation magnetization (Ms) across compositions and coercivity values (Hc) ranging from 5 to 10 A/m. AC hysteresis measurements at 0.5 T (5–10 kHz) showed energy losses as low as 0.8 mJ/kg, with a noticeable minimum occurring near the eutectic composition. This trend was attributed to the enhanced magnetic softness and reduced magnetoelastic coupling at those specific stoichiometries. A comparative analysis of the ribbon samples (as-cast condition) indicated a direct correlation between composition, frequency-dependent energy loss, and coercivity. Boron- or silicon-rich compositions demonstrated higher losses and increased sensitivity to frequency, while eutectic-range samples maintained superior low-loss performance under dynamic conditions. Further heat treatment has been performed to improve microstructure and optimize annealing temperature for such alloy composition. These observations highlight the significant influence of alloy composition on magnetic softness. This magnetic characterization presented in this work ultimately supports the goal of producing soft magnetic motor components, especially in the development of efficient stators and rotors for electrical machines via 3D printing.