Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Unalloyed Tungsten: A Review of Process, Structure, and Properties Relationships

Abstract

Tungsten (W) as a structural component has grown roots in many special applications owing to its radiation-shielding capabilities and its properties at elevated temperatures. The high ductile-brittle transition temperature (DBTT) and the very high melting point of tungsten however have limited its processability to certain technologies such as powder metallurgy. Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) has been introduced in recent years as an alternative for manufacturing tungsten parts to overcome the design limitations posed by powder metallurgy technology. A review of the literature shows significant improvements in the quality of tungsten components produced by LPBF, implying a strong potential for manufacturing tungsten with this technology and a need for further research on this subject. This review paper presents the current state-of-the-art in LPBF of unalloyed tungsten, with a focus on the effect of process parameters on the developed structure/properties and identifies current knowledge gaps.

Progress and Challenges of Additive Manufacturing of Tungsten and Alloys as Plasma-Facing Materials

“…Several AM technologies are being considered to prepare W-based PFCs for fusion applications that have progressed in recent years [6]. Several recent reviews [26,[37][38][39][40] cover the types of AM that have been applied to W. This review differs from others in that it intends to unify multiple manufacturing techniques and the resulting properties in the AM of W materials. It also seeks to highlight the irradiation effects that such materials will be exposed to.…”