GRADIENT SINTERED METAL PREFORM

摘要

A method of forming a metal component with two and three dimensional internal functionally graded alloy composition gradients includes forming the component by a powder based layer-by-layer additive manufacturing process. The areal composition distribution of each powder layer is determined by simultaneously depositing different powders and powder mixtures through a mixing valve attached to a single nozzle during powder deposition. The layers are then sintered with a directed energy source to form a forging preform. The preform is then forged to form a component.