Comparative Analysis of Laser and Plasma Surfacing by Nickel-Based Superalloy of Heat Resistant Steel

Abstract

In this article, the results of surfacing technology development, and structural, and mechanical properties examinations of 16Mo3 steel pipes with an outside coating of Inconel 625 deposited by automated plasma powder transferred arc (PPTA) and automated high power direct diode laser (HPDDL) surfacing were presented. Based on the results of non-destructive, metallographical macro- and microscopic, chemical composition, and thickness and hardness examinations optimal technology for use in high temperature energy or chemical industry applications was selected. The examinations conducted for each of the aforementioned technologies revealed the proper structure and high quality of coating. Dendritic structure with primary crystals growing in the direction of heat dissipation was revealed. No defects such as cracks, lack of fusion or porosity were found. Iron content in the most outer area of the layer made by PPTA with a heat input of 277–514 J/mm, thickness from 1.2 to 1.7 mm, between 4% and 5.5% was observed. Iron content in the most outer area of the layer made by HPDDL surfacing with output power of 1000–1600 W and scanning speed 3.3–4.7mm/s, from 0.6 to 1.3 mm in thickness, between 5.1% and 7.5% was observed. In coated pipes made by either technology high quality of surfaced layers, conforming to requirements posed on protective layers manufactured for prolonged exploitation in temperatures up to 625 °C, were observed. High temperature resistance examinations are the focus of further, yet unpublished, research. The obtained results point to slight differences in the parameters and properties of nickel-based superalloy layers surfaced on 16Mo3 pipes based on the technologies used. However, the process parameters optimization in the case of PPTA was simpler compared to HPDDL surfacing.

Microstructure and Abrasive Wear Resistance of Metal Matrix Composite Coatings Deposited on Steel Grade AISI 4715 by Powder Plasma Transferred Arc Welding Part 1. Mechanical and Structural Properties of a Cobalt-Based Alloy Surface Layer Reinforced with Particles of Titanium Carbide and Synthetic Metal–Diamond Composite

“…The above-named layers are composed of the metallic matrix reinforced with hard particles of interstitial compounds. The matrix is usually made of iron [ 30 , 31 ], nickel [ 32 , 33 ] or alloys containing the aforesaid elements. The Ni-Cr-B-Si alloy is usually applied through thermal spraying [ 34 ].…”

High-Power Diode Laser Surface Transformation Hardening of Ferrous Alloys

“…Argon (at a flow rate of 10 L/min) was used during all hardening trials to prevent oxidation of the surface. Additional details of the HPDD laser source have been previously given [ 21 ]. The selected hardening conditions are listed in Table 2 .…”

Development of Laser Welding and Surface Treatment of Metals

“…This Special Issue, entitled “Development of Laser Welding and Surface Treatment of Metals”, is a complementary and valuable resource of knowledge in the following fields: Study of technological conditions of laser welding, investigation of test joints properties [ 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 ]; Analytical and numerical models of heat sources of laser beam and arc welding processes [ 19 , 20 , 22 , 23 ]; Study of laser cladding and investigations of the coating’s properties and tribological characteristics [ 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 , 31 , 32 , 33 ]; Study and development of fusion welding processes, investigation of properties of the deposit produced under forced cooling or underwater conditions [ 34 , 35 , 36 ]; Study of cladding, surfacing, and thermal spraying processes of wear-resistant coatings, characterization of the coatings [ 37 , 38 , 39 ]; Study of application of local strengthening of the thin-walled structure by laser treatment [ 40 ]. …”