Tribological, Corrosion, and Mechanical Properties of Selective Laser Melted Steel

In additive manufacturing (AM), selective laser melting (SLM) is a relatively novel technique that utilizes thermal energy via laser beams to melt and solidify metallic powders into three-dimensional components. Compared to traditional manufacturing techniques, SLM is advantageous because it is more time-efficient, cost-effective, and allows for the fabrication of components with superior mechanical, tribological, and corrosion performances. However, much of the existing literature highlights the influence of SLM on softer materials such as aluminum or magnesium due to their thermal expansion coefficients rather than on materials such as steel. This review aims to encapsulate the existing literature on SLM steel and understand the factors that allow for its fabrication and the underlying mechanisms that dictate its mechanical, tribological, and corrosion performance. By understanding the trends of laser energy density (LED), scanning patterns, and building directions for these properties, a comprehensive understanding of SLM steel can be achieved. Additionally, through this understanding, the future directions of this research and suggestions will be provided to continue progressing the field in an impactful direction.