Tensile strength of functionally graded and wafer layered structures produced by direct metal deposition

Purpose - This paper aims to investigate the changes in tensile properties of novel functionally graded materials (FGMs) and wafer structures created by direct metal deposition (DMD) additive manufacturing (AM) technology. Design/methodology/approach - Laser-assisted DMD was used to create two innovative sets of metallic structures - the functionally graded and wafer-layered structures - using pairs of six different engineering alloys in different combinations. These alloys were selected due to their high popularity within a diverse range of industries and engineering applications. The laser-assisted DMD was selected as a suitable technique to create these complex structures because of its capability to deposit more than one alloy powder at a time. After creation of these structures, their tensile strength was tested in a series of tensile tests and the results were compared with those of single alloy samples. Findings - It was observed that the mechanical properties of FGMs and wafer structure samples were clearly different from those of the single alloy samples, a fact which creates a whole pool of opportunities for development of new materials or structures with desired mechanical properties that cannot be achieved in single alloy parts. Originality/value - The study demonstrates the application of the DMD process to produce unique structures and materials, which would be high in demand in engineering applications, where metallic parts are exposed to high loads and where excessive tensile stresses may adversely affect the performance of such parts.