Bending properties of titanium lattice structures produced by electron beam melting process

Lattice structures are characterized by good mechanical efficiency because their particular geometry confers high strength and stiffness coupled to lightweight. These structures can be produced using a wide range of technologies, but the additive manufacturing ones are the most promising. In this work, the flexural properties of titanium alloy lattice structure made by means of electron beam melting process were investigated through the three-point bending test, carried out with three different span lengths. It was found that the span length influenced the load-displacement trend; moreover, the lower skin failure was observed in all the test conditions considered, but for the shortest span, the indentation of upper skin was found, too. The scanning electron microscope analysis showed the presence of dimples on the fracture surface, denoting a ductile fracture behavior.