Effect of CO2 Laser Fluence on Cladding Geometrical Dimensions Alternations

Abstract

Geometrical dimensions could play a potential role in the function of laser cladding of nickel-base powder on the cold-rolled carbon steel substrate. The geometrical dimensions and their impact on the efficiency of the process of laser cladding of nickel-base powder (Ni -10wt% Al) on cold rolled 0.2% carbon steel substrate was investigated. This work focused on the effect of laser-specific energy input of CO2laser. The geometrical dimensions of cladding regions are including cladding width, cladding height, depth of dilution, contact angle, dilution area, cladding area, and heat-affected zone dimensions determinations. The laser power (1.8 kW) was used at different traverse speeds (1.5, 3.6, 5, 7.1, 8.6, 12.5 mm/s) with (3mm) laser beam diameter. The feed rate was kept constant after many preliminary claddings at approximately 11 g/min. Fluence values ranged from (48-400J/mm2), and the power density value was (255W/mm2). A minimum dilution percentage (25%) was obtained at the highest fluence value (400 J/mm2). Observations were measured using an optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy, and Image software. Obtained results indicated that the increase in the fluence leads to an increase in height of cladding, HAZ region but lower depth of dilution