Enhanced mechanical properties and deformation mechanisms in DED Inconel 625 via printing path switching

In this work, the effects of printing path switching (0° and 90°) at high linear energy density on the grain structure transition and mechanical properties of directed energy deposition-arc (DED-Arc) Inconel 625 alloys were explored. Microstructural analysis on the DED-Arc 625 with near-equiaxed grains under tensile loading revealed that the deformation initially occurs through planar dislocation glide, followed by the formation of dislocation walls and ‘locking-clamping' structures, which contribute to strain hardening. The interlayer interfaces did not induce adverse effects on mechanical performance. Additionally, the near-equiaxed grain structure maintained superior mechanical properties at elevated temperatures up to 700 °C. This work explores the impact of printing path switching on the grain structure transition and mechanical properties of Inconel 625 alloy manufactured by DED-Arc. The deformation mechanisms and the influence of layer interfaces on the performance of DED-Arc Inconel 625 with near-equiaxed grains were examined and the high temperature performance of the fabricated components was evaluated.