Modelling and Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Laser Powder Bed Fusion Additively Manufactured Lattices
TWI Industrial Member Report 1209-2024
By Alan Clarke, Ali Bakir, Tomaso Maccio and Michael Roy
Key Findings
- In specimens with the same relative density, higher mechanical properties were recorded for those with larger strut diameters.
- During compression testing, fractures in the lattice structure primarily occurred along the diagonal of the specimen.
- A mixed-mode of failure was shown, characterised by both ductile and brittle features.
- The behaviour of the lattice structure under compressive loading could be well represented by a beam element numerical model, with enhanced thickness to adequate represent the junctions.
Impact
As a result of this work TWI Industrial Members can now understand the opportunities to tailor lattice structures produced by LPBF to have the required performance characteristics when loaded in compression or fatigue. Understanding lattice structure performance and failure modes may help to optimise products deployed in aerospace, automotive and biomedical industries.