Optimization of mechanical performance and corrosion behavior in AlSi10Mg alloy produced by additive manufacturing

The use of AlSi10Mg aluminum alloy produced by SLM method in the aviation industry is becoming more widespread day by day since it is a lightweight and high-strength alloy. SLM method is preferred because it provides design freedom and manufacturability of complex structures. In this study, corrosion behavior of AlSi10Mg alloy produced with SLM method with vertical and horizontal scanning strategy was examined in both as-built and T6 heat-treated samples. Corrosion tests were conducted in the salt cabin at 35 celcius containing 5 percent NaCl solution, in Aeroshell 555 oil at 25 celcius and in the open atmosphere furnace at 200 celcius, considering the application areas of the material and the conditions it will be exposed to. In addition, hardness tests and cold (25 celcius) and hot tensile (100 and 200 celcius) tests were also performed to examine mechanical performance. As a result of corrosion tests performed in Aeroshell 555 oil and at 200 celcius for 30 days, no oxidation or corrosion was observed, regardless of scanning direction and heat treatment condition. As a result of the corrosion tests carried out in salt solution, it was seen that the sample produced in the horizontal direction and subjected to T6 heat treatment had the highest corrosion resistance. On the other hand, it was observed that the scanning strategy was not an important factor in mechanical performance tests, but T6 heat treatment caused an increase in hardness values and strength.