Microstructure and mechanical properties investigation of Ni35A–TiC composite coating deposited on AISI 1045 steel by laser cladding

Abstract

In this research, the TiC-Ni35A composite coating was fabricated on the AISI 1045 steel substrate by laser cladding process. The cross-sectional morphology, microstructure, micro-hardness, and wear resistance of coatings obtained under different laser energy densities (E) and TiC powder ratios (PR) were analyzed.According to the results, all the coating had a reliable metallurgical bonding with the AISI 1045 steel substrate. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the coating phases were Ni and TiC. The average microhardness of the Ni35A-80wt.% TiC coating reached up to 75.12 HRC. The minimum coe cient of friction of the composite coating was only about 30% of the AISI 1045 substrate. The wear form was mainly adhesive wear when altering the TiC powder ratios, while the wear form also contained abrasion wear under different energy densities. The ability of decomposition and re-nucleation of TiC was signi cantly improved with the increase of laser energy densities and the decrease of TiC powder ratios.The micro-hardness, wear resistance, and coe cient of friction of the composite coating were improved because of the TiC strengthening phase particles. Compared with the AISI 1045 steel substrate, the microhardness and wear resistance of the composite coating was increased by 5.29 times and 6.26 times, respectively.

Microstructures and Properties of NbC-Reinforced Ni-Based Coatings Synthesized In Situ by Ultrasonic Vibration-Assisted Laser Cladding

“…However, defects such as pores and cracks are easily formed in coatings due to the rapid cooling and heating of laser cladding [ 9 ]. Zhang et al [ 10 ] preset TiC-Ni35 composite powders on the surface of AISI 1045 steel to analyze the effect of different laser energy densities and powder ratios on coating morphologies and properties. The hardness and wear resistance of coatings were improved with the increased laser energy density and the decreased TiC powder ratio.…”