Abstract
In Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), thermal conditions vary across a build due to geometry-dependent heat flow and scan parameters. These spatial variations can lead to defects that are difficult to capture with conventional ex-situ inspection, particularly subsurface features that influence microstructure and mechanical performance. In this work, in-situ thermal imaging is used to extract fundamental thermal features throughout the build. These features are compiled into a voxel-based representation of the part to evaluate how local thermal history affects the final material response. Thermal signatures produced under different laser processing conditions are analyzed, and empirical correlations are developed between these thermal features and key properties of LPBF-processed 316L stainless steel, including yield strength, elongation, and porosity. The results demonstrate clear links between in-situ thermal measurements and final part quality, providing a basis for improved process monitoring and enabling future in-situ part qualification strategies in LPBF.