Computational Approaches of Quasi-Static Compression Loading of SS316L Lattice Structures Made by Selective Laser Melting

journal article in Web of Science

en

Additive manufacturing methods (AM) allow the production of complex-shaped lattice structures from a wide range of materials with enhanced mechanical properties, e.g., high strength to relative density ratio. These structures can be modified for various applications considering a transfer of a specific load or to absorb a precise amount of energy with the required deformation pattern. However, the structure design requires knowledge of the relationship between nonlinear material properties and lattice structure geometrical imperfections affected by manufacturing process parameters. A detailed analytical and numerical computational investigation must be done to better understand the behavior of lattice structures under mechanical loading. Different computational methods lead to different levels of result accuracy and reveal various deformational features. Therefore, this study focuses on a comparison of computational approaches using a quasi-static compression experiment of body-centered cubic (BCC) lattice structure manufactured of stainless steel 316L by selective laser melting technology. Models of geometry in numerical simulations are supplemented with geometrical imperfections that occur on the lattice structure’s surface during the manufacturing process. They are related to the change of lattice struts cross-section size and actual shape. Results of the models supplemented with geometrical imperfections improved the accuracy of the calculations compared to the nominal geometry.

Additive manufacturing methods (AM) allow the production of complex-shaped lattice structures from a wide range of materials with enhanced mechanical properties, e.g., high strength to relative density ratio. These structures can be modified for various applications considering a transfer of a specific load or to absorb a precise amount of energy with the required deformation pattern. However, the structure design requires knowledge of the relationship between nonlinear material properties and lattice structure geometrical imperfections affected by manufacturing process parameters. A detailed analytical and numerical computational investigation must be done to better understand the behavior of lattice structures under mechanical loading. Different computational methods lead to different levels of result accuracy and reveal various deformational features. Therefore, this study focuses on a comparison of computational approaches using a quasi-static compression experiment of body-centered cubic (BCC) lattice structure manufactured of stainless steel 316L by selective laser melting technology. Models of geometry in numerical simulations are supplemented with geometrical imperfections that occur on the lattice structure’s surface during the manufacturing process. They are related to the change of lattice struts cross-section size and actual shape. Results of the models supplemented with geometrical imperfections improved the accuracy of the calculations compared to the nominal geometry.

selective laser melting; finite element analysis; body centered cubic; quasi-static compression test; stainless steel 316L

10.05.2021

MDPI

MDPI, ST ALBAN-ANLAGE 66, CH-4052 BASEL, SWITZERLAND

1996-1944

14

9

1–24

24