The PMM team’s activity in this field has developed significantly in recent years, building on its historical expertise, notably in the relationship between thermal history and microstructural evolution. This focus area has led to several initiatives:
Study of the process–microstructure–properties relationship. We investigate the relationship between process-related cooling conditions and the final microstructure. Particular attention is paid to the effect of the environment on metallurgical transformations.
Development of new materials for metal additive manufacturing. We conduct work to study the effects of composition on the resulting microstructures, whether through the development of new compositions, powder blends, or the use of a controlled atmosphere during build-up. The long-term objective of this work is to reverse the current trend of seeking process parameters to manufacture parts based on grades suited to conventional thermomechanical treatments, by developing new grades specifically dedicated to additive manufacturing.
Mastering the metallurgical consequences of the WAAM process. The “Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing” (WAAM) process enables the manufacture and repair of parts by depositing metal wire and welding. WAAM reduces the amount of material used and therefore reduces the energy consumed compared with subtractive manufacturing processes. We carry out work to model/predict/measure the microstructures resulting from the use of such a technology, intended for producing large-scale metal parts with optimized in-service properties.
Control of the columnar structure by adding zirconium to an aluminium alloy