Abstract
Laser additive manufacturing (LAM) is a fast growing technology for the manufacture of metallic components. Although the activities in the area of steel, titanium and aluminium are manifold, magnesium is practically not utilized for this technology. The reason for this disregard lies in the problems of easy flammability of magnesium powder and the extensive remedial measures for powder handling. By using magnesium wire for laser metal deposition (LMD) these difficulties can be avoided. Moreover, a higher utilisation of the material can be realized. In the present study relevant influencing factors on the LMD process as well as the peculiarities for processing magnesium alloys are identified. The quality of the resulting components is assessed by non-destructive testing and the determination of microstructural and mechanical characteristics. Enabling the processing of magnesium by LAM affords new prospects for its application in the automotive, aircraft and medical industry in matters of design and properties.
