Effect of recoater-blade type on the mechanical properties and microstructure of additively manufactured maraging steels.

The application of soft and hard recoater-blades is studied on the mechanical properties and microstructure of additively manufactured maraging steels. The soft recoater-blade leads to unmelted powders as an initial site for premature fracture. Lower retained austenite fraction ends up with lower phase transformation, strain hardening and ductility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]