Influence of heat input on properties and residual stresses in hybrid additive manufacturing of high strength steels using MSG processes

The application of steels with a higher yield strength allows reductions in wall thickness, component weight and production costs. Hybrid additive manufacturing based on Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes (DED-Arc) can be used to realise highly efficient component modifications and repairs on semi-finished products and additively manufactured structures. There are still a number of key issues preventing widespread implementation, particularly for SMEs. In addition to the manufacturing design, detailed information about assembly strategy and geometric adaptation of the component for modifications or repairs are missing. These include the welding-related stresses associated with the microstructural influences caused by the additive manufacturing steps, particularly in the transition area of the substrate and filler material interface. The present research focuses the effect of welding heat control during DED-Arc process on the residual stresses, especially in the transition area. Defined specimens were welded fully automatically with a high-strength solid wire (yield strength > 790 MPa) especially adapted for DED-Arc on S690QL substrate. The working temperature and heat input were systematically varied for a statistical effect analysis on the residual stress state of the hybrid manufactured components. Regarding heat control, t8/5 cooling times within the recommended processing range (approx. 5 s to 20 s) were complied. The investigation revealed a significant influence of the working temperature Ti on the compressive residual stresses in the transition area and the tensile residual stresses at the base of the substrate. High working temperatures result in lower compressive residual stresses, heat input E does not significantly affect the tensile stresses.