The research objective of this project is to investigate the effects of energy density-based
process parameters on the resulting mechanical properties of stainless steel 316L built by a
powder-bed additive manufacturing process. More specifically, we will to elucidate how the
volumetric energy density imparted by the laser as well as the energy deposition rate, affects the
hardness, porosity and density of the bulk material. For this, process parameters such as laser
power, and the variables constituting the effective scanning speed were changed, which
effectively alters the energy density imparted onto the material. By conducting a systematic
design of experiments, an understanding of the resolutions of properties achievable is obtained.
The resulting structures were tested for hardness, density measurements, and underwent
elemental analysis. By understanding the relationships of these mechanical properties as a
function of process energy density, it will be possible to create tailored spatial mechanical
property gradients. Bioinspired gradient structures can then be created and their mechanical
performance evaluated
