Investigation of the microstructure-property behaviour of powder bed fusion Ti-6Al-4V parts after heat treatment via an integrated high-fidelity phase-field and crystal plasticity framework

Tu, Yuhui, Zhang, Jianxin, Geng, Yaoyi, Leen, Seán B., & Harrison, Noel M. (2026). Investigation of the microstructure-property behaviour of powder bed fusion Ti-6Al-4V parts after heat treatment via an integrated high-fidelity phase-field and crystal plasticity framework. Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 1053, 186152.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2026.186152

Abstract

This paper presents a through-process approach integrating the phase-field method (PFM) with crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) modelling to predict microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of powder bed fusion (PBF) manufactured Ti-6Al-4V parts. The novelty of this work lies in the comprehensive validation workflow for both PFM and CPFE models, ensuring alignment with experimental data. The model’s effectiveness is validated through strong agreement with EBSD measurement and tensile test results, showing deviations of just 0.66 % for lath area and 4.4 % for yield strength. The model uses high-fidelity EBSD-derived data to capture grain (lath) boundary migration and lath growth during post-build annealing heat treatment. While specifically validated for Ti-6Al-4V, the approach can be adapted to other PBF materials with suitable adjustments. This framework integrates PFM and CPFE to link thermal processing with microstructure evolution and mechanical performance, offering a powerful tool for optimizing additive manufacturing processes and improving material performance.

Funder

Science Foundation Ireland

Publisher

Elsevier

Rights

CC BY

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