METHODS OF RESIDUAL STRESS REDUCTION FOR METAL PARTS MANUFACTURED USING SELECTIVE LASER MELTING (A REVIEW)

Residual stress is commonly associated with metallic parts produced from Selective Laser Melting (SLM) process in Additive Manufacturing (AM). Residual stress is often the limiting factor for employing metal parts fabricated using SLM process in final application. This paper presents a review of residual stress reduction strategies and methods used in SLM process, categorized as pre-processing, in-situ, and post-processing type. Methods used to relieve residual stresses in welded parts which may be applicable to AM produced parts are also discussed.