Al-12Si components were manufactured by Selective Laser Melting (SLM) using three different atmospheres: argon, nitrogen and helium. The atmosphere type did not affect the part's density or hardness and all components reached near full relative density (>97%). The mechanical properties of the components produced in Ar and N 2 were superior to those in He, especially the ductility, which has been attributed to the formation of pore clusters in the microstructure. The mechanical properties in SLM-produced components are superior to those produced using conventional method.
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