Dissolution Behavior of Cast WC Particles in NiCrBSi-WC Coatings by Laser Induction Hybrid Cladding

Abstract

In order to characterize the dissolution of cast WC particles in Ni-based WC coatings by laser induction hybrid rapid cladding, NiCrBSi+50 wt.% WC coatings are produced on A3 steel by low and high speed laser induction hybrid cladding (LIHC). When laser scanning speed is only 600 mm/min, the crack-free coating has pores and its dilution is as high as 45%. At the bottom of coating, the cast WC particles are dissolved completely and the herringbone M6C eutectics are precipitated. In the center of coating, the cast WC particles are also dissolved completely and the acicular, blocky and dendritic carbides with relatively low hardness are precipitated. At two sides of coating, some cast WC particles are dissolved partially and interact with Ni-based alloy to form an alloyed reaction layer, while others preserve the primary eutectic structure and high hardness. When laser scanning speed and powder feeding rate are increased to 1500 mm/min and 85.6 g/min, the coating has cracks but no pores. Its dilution can be markedly decreased to 7.8%. Moreover, a majority of WC particles are still composed of primary eutectic structure and keep their high hardness, which can play a positive role in strengthening Ni-based metallic matrix.