Basics of Additive Manufacturing Processes for High-Entropy Alloys

Abstract

The review offers a comprehensive analysis of additive manufacturing (AM) processes in the application of high-entropy alloys (HEAs). HEAs have gained considerable attention in recent years due to their unique mechanical and physical properties. We provide the historical background and a clear definition of HEAs, outlining their development over time. The focus is concentrated on examining the utilization of AM processes in HEAs. Specifically, three prominent AM techniques are discussed: electron-beam processes, laser-processed HEAs, and wire-arc additive manufacturing. Each technique is explored in detail, including its advantages, restrictions, and current applications within the HEAs field. An attention is stressed on the significance of AM-process parameters during the fabrication of HEAs. Parameters such as laser power, scanning speed, and powder-feed rate are analysed for their influences on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the final product. The post-processing techniques for additive-manufactured HEAs are considered. The importance of steps such as heat treatment, surface finishing, and machining in achieving the desired material properties and dimensional accuracy in AM-produced HEA components is underlined. Overviewing the HEAs, their application in AM processes, the influence of process parameters, and post-processing considerations, this work can act as a useful source of information for researchers on the way to amendment of the understanding and implementation of AM in the HEAs.

Keywords

• additive manufacturing
• high-entropy alloys
• processing
• structure
• properties