Analysis of Mechanical Anisotropy Characteristics through Additive Manufacturing Process in Low Carbon Steel

Abstract

This study analyzes the mechanical anisotropy characteristics of low-carbon steel using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). The process employed ER70S-6 wire deposited on SAE 1020 steel plates, with welding parameters set as follows: voltage of 189 V, current of 136 A, wire feed speed of 5.08 m/min, and shielding gas flow rate of 13.4 L/min (a mixture of 75% argon and 25% carbon dioxide). Tensile tests revealed that layer orientation affects material properties, with maximum tensile strength of 429 MPa at the 90° orientation and greater elongation, 0.1388 mm/mm, at the 0° orientation. Vickers microhardness analysis showed an average hardness of 175 HV, indicating consistent hardness across the parts. The microstructure exhibited a predominance of ferrite and pearlite, as well as porosity attributed to rapid solidification. These results confirm the anisotropy of ER70S-6 steel processed by WAAM, emphasizing the need for strict control of welding parameters to optimize its mechanical properties. The research suggests that WAAM is suitable for industrial applications requiring complex and durable metal components.