Investigation of cavitation erosion resistance in parts produced with wire arc additional manufacturing method

AlSi5 alloy is a widely used aluminum alloy, especially in casting applications, and its hardness properties are an important factor determining the mechanical performance of the material. This alloy offers good flowability and casting properties thanks to its silicium content, while also offering advantages in terms of hardness and strength. Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is one of the new production methods and is being developed by researchers. Casting method is preferred in AlSi5 production. In this study, parts were produced by WAAM and gravity casting. Then, AlSi5 test specimens were prepared and necessary cleaning processes were carried out to be used in experimental studies. In order to determine the effects of the production methods on the microstructure, mechanical and corrosion properties of the test specimens, optical microscope, SEM-EDX examinations, hardness measurements, wear, cavitation and corrosion tests were carried out. As a result of the studies, it was seen that the production method affects the microstructural and mechanical properties of AlSi5 alloy. It is concluded that the wear and corrosion properties of the parts produced by WAAM method are better than the parts produced by casting method