Process Parameters Analysis of Laser Phase Transformation Hardening on the Raceway Surface of Shield Main Bearing

Abstract

The main bearing of the shield machine has a huge structure and severe service conditions, which are prone to wear and fatigue damage. To improve the anti-wear and anti-fatigue ability of the raceway surface of the shield main bearing, laser transformation hardening under different parameters of the shield main bearing raceway material 42CrMo steel was researched. The effects of laser power and scanning speed on the phase transformation of 42CrMo steel and the depth of the hardened layer were studied. The numerical model was verified using the theoretical and experimental results. Orthogonal tables of laser processing parameters are established. The results show that the depth of the hardened raceway layer increases with increased laser power and decreased laser scanning speed. According to the results of orthogonal primary and secondary analyses and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation, the depth of the hardened layer of the raceway can reach 1.08 mm, and the hardened layer is relatively uniform (laser power, 2250 W; scanning speed, 20 mm/s; spot length, 5 mm). The research in this paper provides a theoretical basis and technological innovation for the processing methods and engineering applications of high-reliability and long-life shield main bearings, which is of great engineering significance.

Surface Modification of 42CrMo Steels: A Review from Wear and Corrosion Resistance

“…The findings revealed that the latter beam shape resulted in a broader and more uniformly hardened layer, especially noticeable at higher scanning speeds and laser power settings. He et al [4] investigated the effects of laser power and scanning speed on the depth of the hardened layer of 42CrMo steel in the surface engineering process of laser surface hardening. The study revealed that the depth of the hardened layer increased with higher laser power and lower scanning speed.…”

“…This 42CrMo steel is commonly used for various general-purpose parts, such as crankshafts, rams, spindles, gears, press brake dies, casting rolls, hydraulic pistons, chain sprocket wheels, cutting tools, bearings, etc. [1][2][3][4]. The surface of this steel is prone to wear and corrosion, which results in shortening its service life.…”