Research Progress on Microstructure and Properties of 304 Stainless SteelManufactured by Laser Melting Deposition

Author of the article:CUI Weiming1, ZENG Yuzhou1, BAI Qiheng1, WANG Chenxinwei1, LI Xu1,PAN Chengbo1, WANG Jiandong1, ZHAO

Author's Workplace：1. College of Material Science and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China; 2. StateKey Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi 'an 710072, China

Key Words：laser melting deposition; 304 stainless steel; microstructure; properties; ultrasonic field

Abstract：In recent years, laser melting deposition (LMD) additive manufacturing technology has emerged as an idealnear-net-shaped forming method for metallic materials because of its high shaping flexibility, high processing efficiency,and excellent material utilization rate. 304 stainless steel, renowned for its superior corrosion resistance, heat resistance,low-temperature strength, and mechanical properties, is widely applied across various industrial sectors, such as petroleum,nuclear energy, chemical engineering, and aerospace. For geometrically complex 304 stainless steel components requiringmonolithic fabrication, traditional manufacturing methods often face significant challenges, whereas laser melting depositiontechnology provides a novel solution. On the basis of an extensive review of the literature, this paper summarizes majorresearch advancements in LMD of 304 stainless steel both domestically and internationally. The microstructuralcharacteristics and mechanical properties of LMD-fabricated 304 stainless steel are analysed first. The improvement effectsof the ultrasonic field on the microstructure and performance of LMD-processed 304 stainless steel are subsequentlyinvestigated. Finally, the current limitations in LMD research on 304 stainless steel are discussed, with perspectivesproposed for developing innovative process technologies and advancing comprehensive experimental studies.