Investigation on electron beam welding of dissimilar wrought/selective laser melting AISI 304 stainless steel plates

The selective laser melting (SLM) process gives a possibility to create complex shape parts. Joining SLM alloy parts to similar or dissimilar alloy parts can overcome some product design limitations such as limited dimensions and residual stress concentration. In this study, successful electron beam joining work on to SLM AISI 304 stainless steel plates was performed. The influence of beam current on the weld bead profile was investigated. Typical welded joints were analyzed by microstructure, microhardness, and tensile tests. The optimal welding parameters were obtained accordingly. A thorough analysis of the element and microstructure distribution in SLM and its influence on the properties of the welded joints were also investigated.