There are many exciting, cutting-edge research projects occurring within the Additive manufacturing teams at CSIRO; from 3D metal printing with ebeam or laser, as well as surface technology processes such as Cold Spray and Laser/plasma transferred arc cladding. The connecting tool to making sense and creating visual representations to interpret results is Microscopy. Optical and SEM microscopy and x-ray analysis are critical tools not only for ongoing feedback during experiments, but also to characterise the Microstructural constituents, their morphology, identification of defects originating during the builds and fracture surfaces from tensile testing. This study focuses on results from a series of 3D ebeam experiments. Building on CSIRO’s experience in 3D printing Titanium components FSX414 was identified as an important alloy for consideration, and in fact the next step with 3D printing. Samples were built under known parameters, initially with very mixed results. Visible surface cracking was present in the initial builds. After sectioning, optical microscopy identified this cracking to be interdendritic and in the build direction. Variations to process parameters and raw powders improved the present cracking which was in turn further improved by Hot Isostatic Pressing. Microscopy was an invaluable tool to collect information in this project to provide visual evidence for interpretation, discussion and ultimately contributing to the knowledge of ebeam manufacture of FSX414 components.