TIG and laser cladding of Stellite 6 alloy on 12%Cr steel plate

Abstract

In order to repair and improve the performance of machinery parts of a power plant, pulsed Nd: YAG laser, CO2 laser, diode laser and TIG cladding were carried out for deposition of Stellite 6 alloy on the surface of 12%Cr martensitic stainless steel plate (t=12mm). These clad layers were characterized by investigating cross sectional geometry, microstructural features and DAS (Dendrite Arm Spacing) values, dilution, macroand micro-distribution of alloying elements, primary and eutectic phases, hardness distribution and wear resistance by microscope, SEM, EDS, EPMA, X-ray diffractometer, Vickers hardness tester and Oogoshi wear resistance tester. The small dilution ratios, fine microstructures, narrow widths of heat-affected zones, high Vickers hardness, excellent wear-resistance, high contents of Co and low contents of Fe in the clad layers were obtained by laser cladding in comparison with TIG process.