Work

Investigating the Microstructural Behavior and Energy Absorption of Pure Copper Lattice Structures Fabricated by Selective Electron Beam Melting

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Pure copper’s exceptional thermal and electrical properties, along with its processability, make it indispensable in aerospace, automotive, and electrical industries, particularly in heat exchangers and radiators. Lattice structures, with high specific surface areas, low weight, and high strength, are ideal for lightweight yet strong components. While traditional methods struggle with complex lattice geometries, selective electron beam melting (SEBM) enables the fabrication of intricate pure copper lattices with high energy efficiency in a vacuum environment. This study used SEBM to fabricate OCTET pure copper lattices with relative densities of 21.16%–73.77%. The macrostructure matched the design, achieving a maximum energy absorption capacity of 15.00 MJ/m3. At 40.04% relative density, compressive response shifted from shock to compression hardening, with densification strains ranging from 23.96% to 51.68%. Microdefects such as corrugation, size differences, and internal holes influenced mechanical properties and energy absorption. Post-polishing reduced surface roughness from 14.12 μm to 2.70 μm without affecting specific energy absorption. Increasing strut diameter reduced the microdefects’ impact on lattice strength, enhancing performance and reliability.

Source: Coatings

DOI: 10.3390/coatings15030348

Authors: Xin Yang, Zhaoyang Zhang, Fan Song, Xiaodong Xie, Huan Qi, Chao Ding

Institutions: Hangzhou City University, Xi'an University of Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Cellular and Composite Structures

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137