Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWSAfter evaluation and consideration of the requirement profile, our material design starts with the calculation of the thermodynamic state of alloy systems by using Thermo-Calc software to predict:
- Phase diagrams as well as the proportions and compositions of the individual phases
- Transformation temperatures and solubility limits
- Physical properties.
From these predictions, the next step is to derive predictions of the property profile and suitability of the proposed material composition using our empirical knowledge, utilizing empirical correlations, and increasingly by applying AI methods. Material combinations that appear interesting are validated experimentally in the final step. For this purpose, we use self-developed system technology and methodology for laser cladding for material synthesis. This allows us to optionally mix up to eight different powders and wires with different compositions (pure elements or master alloys) in-situ and thus apply defined alloy compositions or variations efficiently and reproducibly in graded bar samples. Typically, each of these bar samples can contain up to six alloy compositions. These can then be analyzed in terms of their structure and properties in a time-saving manner. If necessary and to take into account aspects of processability, cost or sustainability, the material design can be refined in further iteration stages according to your requirements.