Effects of processing conditions on the solidification and heat-affected zone of 309L stainless steel claddings on carbon steel using wire-directed energy deposition

Abstract

Directed energy deposition and laser cladding technologies are suitable advanced manufacturing techniques for applying corrosion-resistant claddings to large carbon steel components. In this work, we clad 309L stainless steel wire onto carbon steel substrates and examine the effects of processing parameters (laser power and travel speed) on metallurgical bonding and microstructures. Wire dripping defects correlate to excessive heat input, while cracking, stubbing and delamination defects are linked with insufficient heat input. Spectroscopic scans of the weld microstructure show the amount of base metal mixing in the weld is a function of processing parameters and the number of cladding layers. In the first cladding layer, the weld metal is diluted with base metal ranging from 1.7 to 45.6 %; this amount dramatically decreases in the second layer (0–8.6 %), promoting primary ferrite solidification, which decreases solidification cracking susceptibility. Martensite forms in the heat-affected zone from the high cooling rates associated with laser processing. Subsequent laser passes temper the martensite and carbon diffuses from the substrate into the first cladding layer. Cladding two or more layers is beneficial for mitigating defects, lowering dilution, and producing a highly alloyed surface suitable for corrosion protection.