Modernization of Integrated Technologies for Ground Systems (MINT-GS) – Screening OF 17-4PH SS Laser Powder Bed Fusion Additive Manufacturing Process

Additive Manufacturing is currently being utilized to improve military readiness by transforming maintenance operations and the supply chain associated with repairing or replacing parts or components on legacy vehicles. The National Institute for Aviation Research at Wichita State University is collaborating with the Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center in the creation of a rapid qualification framework for various additive manufacturing materials and processes to support the modernization and sustainment of ground vehicles. Currently, a rapid qualification 17-4PH stainless steel material is being executed utilizing Laser Powder Bed Fusion and Direct Energy Deposition additive manufacturing processes. Prior to entering the rapid qualification, pre-qualification screening studies are performed to select the feedstock and develop process control to limit risk within the qualification. An overview of the pre-qualification screening studies performed in selecting the feedstock and heat treatment parameters for the laser powder bed fusion process are described throughout this paper.