Yuhan Zhuge

Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) is a rapidly advancing additive manufacturing technique capable of producing complex geometries unattainable by conventional methods. Extensive research has focused on improving the processability and mechanical performance of Ni-based superalloys fabricated by L-PBF, primarily by mitigating cracking through optimized printing parameters and alloy design. However, the mechanical performance of as-built components remains suboptimal, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of the precipitation kinetics of the strengthening γ′ phase. This research aims to establish a foundation for designing more efficient and effective post-build heat treatments for AM Ni-based superalloys. Such treatments can tailor the size and distribution of the γ′ phase while minimizing the risk of strain-age cracking, which is often triggered by stresses developed during γ′ precipitation.

This work is supervised by Prof Roger Reed, Prof Sergio Lozano-Perez, Prof Yuanbo Tang, and Dr Christina Hofer.