Microstructural characterization of cemented carbide samples by image analysis techniques

Enhancing Quality Control: Image-Based Quantification of Carbides and Defect Remediation in Binder Jetting Additive Manufacturing

While binder jetting (BJ) additive manufacturing (AM) holds considerable promise for industrial applications, defects often compromise part quality. This study addresses these challenges by investigating binding mechanisms and analyzing common defects, proposing tailored solutions to mitigate them. Emphasizing defect identification for effective quality control in BJ-AM, this research offers strategies for in-process rectification and post-process evaluation to elevate part quality. It shows how to successfully process metallic parts with complex geometries while maintaining consistent material properties. Furthermore, the paper explores the microstructure of AISI M2 tool steel, utilizing advanced image processing techniques like digital image analysis and SEM images to evaluate carbide distribution. The results show that M2 tool steel has a high proportion of M6C carbides, with furnace-cooled samples ranging from ~2.4% to 7.1% and MC carbides from ~0.4% to 9.4%. M6C carbides ranged from ~2.6% to 3.8% in air-cooled samples, while water-cooled samples peaked at ~8.52%. Sintering conditions also affected shrinkage, with furnace-cooled samples showing the lowest rates (1.7 ± 0.4% to 5 ± 0.4%) and water-cooled samples showing the highest (2 ± 0.4% to 14.1 ± 0.4%). The study recommends real-time defect detection systems with autonomous corrective capabilities to improve the quality and performance of BJ-AM components.