Deposition of Multi-Ceramic Aluminium-Matrix Composite Coating by Direct Laser Deposition

Abstract

Using of metal matrix composite coating is a promising approach for improving the surface properties of a component against the mechanical and environmental attacks especially wear and corrosion. Laser cladding (LC), also known as direct energy deposition (DED), is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique, able to perform coating, repair worn parts, manufacturing and prototyping. In this work, pure Al and a mixture of multi-ceramic Al-15SiC-15Al2O3 coatings were successfully deposited on Al-based substrate. The quality of the deposited clads was evaluated according to macro-graphic, microstructure, and microhardness characteristics. The microscopic inspection of the multi-ceramic coatings showed a slight dilution of SiC particles. Also, XRD investigation revealed a formation of Al4C3 carbide. Besides SiC and Al2O3 hard phases, this yielded an increase in matrix microhardness about 180% (from 75 to 212 Hv0.05) as compared to pure Al clads, indicating a great improvement in the mechanical properties of the composite cladded coating.