Metallic joints within tokamak devices necessitate high interface hardness and superior bonding properties. However, conventional manufacturing techniques, specifically the hot isostatic pressing (HIP) diffusion joining process, encounter challenges, including the degradation of the SS316L/CuCrZr interface and CuCrZr hardness. To address this, we explore the potential of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology. To assess its viability, we fabricated 54 SS316L/CuCrZr samples and systematically investigated the impact of varied process parameters on the microhardness and tensile strength of the dissimilar metal interfaces. Through comprehensive analysis, integrating scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imagery, we elucidated the mechanisms underlying mechanical property alterations. Notably, within a laser volumetric energy density range of 60 J/mm3 to 90 J/mm3, we achieved elevated interface hardness (around 150 HV) and commendable bonding quality. Comparative analysis against traditional methods revealed a substantial enhancement of 30% to 40% in interface hardness with additive manufacturing, effectively mitigating CuCrZr hardness degradation.
The nuclear and petrochemical industries often require multi-metal parts that are corrosion-resistant, heat-resistant, and possess high strength to enhance equipment safety and reduce downtime. Additive manufacturing technology enables the rapid and flexible processing of multi-metal parts to meet these stringent demands. This study is aimed at investigating the interface hardness between CoCrMo/IN625 to determine optimal processing parameters that can be utilized in manufacturing reliable and durable multi-metal parts. The result indicates that when the volumetric energy density, Ev, is at or below 20 J/mm3, microfluidic forces are unable to sufficiently diffuse between the two metals, leading to insufficient diffusion, and the high hardness CoCrMo acts as a support, resulting in a significantly higher interface hardness. As Ev increases, intense recoil pressure within the microfluidic forces disrupts the melt pool, allowing for full diffusion between the two metals. The fully diffused high-hardness CoCrMo has been diluted by the low-hardness IN625, thus reducing the interface hardness. Considering the interface hardness, strength, and printing efficiency (time and energy consumption), we recommend a range of 35 J/mm3 < Ev ≤ 75 J/mm3. In this range, the average values for interface hardness and tensile strength of the samples are approximately 382 HV and 903 MPa, respectively.