Microstructure and Properties of the Aluminum Alloyed with ZrO Powder Using Fiber Laser

Abstract

The scope of the work covers the development of the relationship between the chemical composition of surface-modified aluminium and its mechanical properties. This article presents the impact of laser alloying with ZrO powder on the microstructure and mechanical properties of pure aluminium. In order to study the phenomena occurring during the laser alloying process, microstructural studies were carried out using optical microscopy. Additionally, the properties of the obtained alloy were tested - abrasion resistance and hardness measured at low load force. As a result of the alloying process, three distinct zones were identified: the remelting zone (RZ), the diffusion zone (DZ) and the heat affected zone (HAZ). The surface modification resulting from laser alloying increases the hardness and abrasion resistance of the material.