Analysis of microstructure, surface morphology, and scratch resistance of high velocity oxy-fuel coated nickel based hybrid nano-composites

Abstract

In recent years, high velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) coating technology has gained significant interest in the field of surface engineering. In this study, we have investigated the microstructure, surface morphology, and scratch resistance of HVOF coated Nickel based novel hybrid nano-composites. The coatings were prepared using a high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF). HVOF coatings have the ability to enhance the surface properties of various materials, making them more resistant to wear, corrosion, and erosion. Thermal spraying technique, and the microstructure and surface morphology of the coatings were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The scratch test was performed using a TR-101, DUCOM made Scratch tester to evaluate the scratch resistance of the coatings. The results of the study revealed that the HVOF coated novel hybrid nano-composites exhibited a fine-grained microstructure with a dense and homogeneous surface morphology. The scratch resistance of the coatings was significantly improved due to the addition of nano composites. The load required to cause the first visible scratch on the coated surface was found to be significantly higher than that of the uncoated substrate. The scratch morphology of the coatings was also studied, which revealed that the scratch-induced damage was mainly due to the plastic deformation of the coating material. The results suggest that the HVOF coated novel hybrid nano composites have great potential in improving the surface properties of various engineering materials and can be used in applications where high wear resistance is required. Overall, the study demonstrates that the combination of HVOF coating technology and hybrid nano-composites can result in coatings with improved microstructure, surface morphology, and scratch resistance, which makes them ideal for use in applications wherever wear resistance is critical.