Review on Additive Manufacturing of Single-Crystal Nickel-based Superalloys

The conventional fabrication process for single-crystal nickel-based superalloy materials is directional solidifica-tion,which is classified as casting.With the rapid development of additive manufacturing(AM)technologies,a novel process for fabricating single-crystal superalloys has become possible.This article reviews recent research on the AM of single-crystal nickel-based superalloys.Laser AM technologies,particularly directed energy deposition,are mainly used to repair single-crystal materials.Electron beam powder bed fusion is an innovative method for the direct fabrication of single-crystal materials.Accordingly,the mechanisms of single-crystal formation during AM are analyzed to elucidate the potential of this process route.Furthermore,this article discusses the challenges faced by AM for single-crystal fabrication,and provides perspectives on the trends of future developments.