Investigation of the mechanical and microstructural homogeneity ofthe Wire-Arc additively Manufactured H۱۳ Tool Steel

This study investigates the microstructural and mechanical properties of H۱۳ hot work tool steel fabricated usingWire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). A H۱۳ steel wire was processed through thermomechanical treatments andutilized in a WAAM setup combining a three-axis CNC table with a GMAW welding machine. The microstructure andproperties were characterized using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, XRD, hardness testing, and tensile testing. Resultsrevealed predominantly martensitic structures with the presence of δ-ferrite and complex carbonitrides. Hardnessmeasurements showed significant variations across different zones, with the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) exhibiting the highesthardness (۵۹۰ HV) compared to the substrate (۲۰۰ HV) and weld zone (۴۹۲ HV). Tensile testing of two-layer samplesdemonstrated both ductile and brittle fracture behaviors, with optimal properties observed in the layer overlap regions.Fractography analysis revealed a mixed-mode failure mechanism characterized by micro cracks, tearing ridges, and dimpleformations. This study provides valuable insights into the microstructural evolution and mechanical behavior of WAAMprocessedH۱۳ tool steel, contributing to the understanding of additive manufacturing processes for hot work tool steels.