A review of the impact of process parameters and post-process interventions on the mechanical properties and microstructure of stainless steel using selective laser melting

The Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technique possesses significant promise for producing distinctive 3D components of stainless steel, offering remarkable design flexibility for many industrial applications. In certain applications, porosity and other flaws affected by process parameters may negatively affect the performance of manufactured components. Enhancement of mechanical and surface properties is necessary for numerous applications. Hence, the selection of Process parameters and post-processing procedures help in improving mechanical qualities and reducing metallurgical defects. The determination of this review is to offer a comprehensive account of the existing literature on Selective laser melted stainless steel, including selective laser melting process parameters optimization for the manufacture of Stainless-steel parts, focusing on improving part densification and achieving chosen microstructural morphologies. The impact of Various post-processing methods examined in significant research studies have been thoroughly analysed, revealing their effects on defects and the mechanical properties of selective laser melting-fabricated stainless-steel alloys. Numerous solutions have been discovered, among which have the form of optimizing the parameters of the process and also it helps better understanding of the Surface Enhancement and Material Property Improvement techniques used for post-processing. An extensive analysis of different energy-based surface finishing approaches, such as mechanical, chemical, and thermal procedures, shows increases in the strength, ductility, and surface roughness of stainless steel parts made using Selective laser melting.