Microstructure and properties of borided 41Cr4 steel after laser surface modification with re-melting

Abstract

The paper presents the results of laser surface modification of the borided layers produced on the 41Cr4 medium carbon steel (0.43% C, 1.02% Cr). Laser tracks were arranged by CO2 laser beam as a single track and as multiple tracks formed in the shape of helical line. The microstructure in both cases consists of three following zones: re-melted zone (MZ) (eutectic mixture of borides and martensite), heat-affected zone (HAZ) (martensite) and the substrate (ferrite and pearlite). XRD scans of the laser-modified borided specimen confirmed the presence of the same two types of iron borides (FeB and Fe2B), like these indicated in the as-borided layer. After re-solidification in some places iron richer Fe3B phase was additionally formed. The layer after boriding and laser heat treatment (LHT) has a lower microhardness, than the only borided layer, reducing the hardness gradient between the diffusion layer and the substrate. Probably, the brittleness of this layer is lower. The improved wear resistance of this layer has been found in comparison with borided layers after conventional heat treatment.