Controlling the Surface Roughness of Hastelloy X Components Manufactured by Selective Laser Melting

Poor surface quality presents a major limitation to the widespread use of selective laser melting (SLM) technology. In this study, systematic research has been carried out to study the influences of different processing parameters and scanning strategies on surface roughness of SLMed Hastelloy X alloy. Surface characterisations revealed that melt pool shape and the presence of partially melted particles are vital factors in determining the surface profile and resultant roughness in the final parts. By understanding the surface roughness formation mechanism, optimal surface roughness of manufactured components can be achieved.