Characterization and Comparison of Inconel 625 Processed by Selective Laser Melting and Laser Metal Deposition

Inconel 625 (IN625) is a nickel-based superalloy well-suited for demanding environments in the aeronautic and aerospace industries due to its excellent mechanical and corrosion resistance properties. This study aims to characterize and compare IN625 processed by two different additive manufacturing (AM) techniques: selective laser melting (SLM) and laser metal deposition (LMD). The methodology involved performing detailed characterization of the different powders used and optimizing processing parameters to achieve maximum density and hardness, which resulted in very fine microstructures. The results indicated that the LMD process, while allowing a higher build-up rate, produced components with lower dimensional accuracy and hardness compared to those made with the SLM process. This research provides significant insights into the performance differences of IN625 through various AM methods, illustrating the potential of SLM and LMD in producing aerospace components while highlighting key considerations in selecting appropriate manufacturing techniques for complex geometries.