Metal Matrix Composite Coatings Manufactured by Thermal Spraying: Influence of the Powder Preparation on the Coating Properties

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to manufacture metal matrix composite coatings by thermal spraying. In order to improve coating’s mechanical properties, it is necessary to increase homogeneity. To meet this objective, the chosen approach was to optimize the powder morphology by mechanical alloying. Indeed, the mechanical alloying method (ball milling) was implemented to synthesize NiCr-Cr3C2 and NiCrBSi-WC composite powders by using cold spraying and high-velocity oxygen fuel process, respectively. After optimizing the process parameters on powder grain size, the composite coatings were compared with standard coatings manufactured from mixed powders. SEM observations, hardness measurements, and XRD analyses were the first technologies implemented to characterize the metal matrix composite coatings. Different characteristics were then observed. When mechanical alloying process is employed to synthesize composite powders strengthened by particle dispersion, the powders tend to fracture into small segments, especially when high content of hard particles is added. Powder microstructures were then refined, which induced thinner coating morphologies and reduced porosity rate. Once an improved microstructure is obtained, manufacturing of coating using milled powders was found suitable in comparison with coatings manufactured only with mixed powders.