Laser cladding of Mg-Al alloys

Abstract

Among rapid solidification processing methods, laser cladding is a unique and promising technique to increase the corrosion resistance of materials. This paper describes the improvement of the laser cladding process for magnesium based alloys and an investigation of the effect of laser cladding technique upon the microstructure and the corrosion resistance of Mg-based alloys. The cladding apparatus and techniques have been adapted for Mg cladding to overcome the oxidation and high vapor pressure related problems. Laser clad Mg27Al73, Mg53Al47, and Mg72Al28 have been obtained. Eutectic phases are observed in the two Mg-rich alloys and in the interface of the Al-rich alloy. Polycrystalline structure was formed in Mg27Al73. Laser clad Mg27Al73 was found superior to laser clad Mg-5wt%Zr, Mg-2wt%Zr, cast AZ91B and cast Mg in corrosion properties.Among rapid solidification processing methods, laser cladding is a unique and promising technique to increase the corrosion resistance of materials. This paper describes the improvement of the laser cladding process for magnesium based alloys and an investigation of the effect of laser cladding technique upon the microstructure and the corrosion resistance of Mg-based alloys. The cladding apparatus and techniques have been adapted for Mg cladding to overcome the oxidation and high vapor pressure related problems. Laser clad Mg27Al73, Mg53Al47, and Mg72Al28 have been obtained. Eutectic phases are observed in the two Mg-rich alloys and in the interface of the Al-rich alloy. Polycrystalline structure was formed in Mg27Al73. Laser clad Mg27Al73 was found superior to laser clad Mg-5wt%Zr, Mg-2wt%Zr, cast AZ91B and cast Mg in corrosion properties.