Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Biomedical Co-Cr-Mo Alloy Produced by Precision Casting and 3D Printing Technologies

Cobalt-based alloys are widely used for orthopedic implants due to their excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. Biomedical Co-Cr-Mo alloy, commonly applied in knee replacements, is typically produced by precision casting. However, in cases requiring patient-specific geometries, additive manufacturing technologies, such as Selective Laser Melting (SLM), offer promising alternatives. This study compares the microstructure and mechanical properties of Co-Cr-Mo alloy in the as-cast state and after SLM processing. The SLM-produced samples exhibited a fine, cellular microstructure and superior mechanical strength. Specifically, the printed alloy achieved a yield strength of 688 ± 8 MPa and an ultimate tensile strength of 994 ± 11 MPa, exceeding that of the cast material by about 495 ± 1 MPa. These results demonstrate the potential of SLM technology for manufacturing customized orthopedic implants with improved mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy.