Optimization of the deposition process of corrosion resistant Stellite 6 coatings produced by laser cladding

Laser cladding is one of the most efficient surface treatment technologies in the industry. It uses a laser heat source to deposit a thin layer of a desired material on a moving substrate, whose properties have to be improved, achieving a metallurgical bonding between them with low heat affected zone and low dilution, compared to other conventional technologies such as PTA, TIG welding or thermal Spraying. In this sense, it is remarkable that there are 3 main application fields for laser cladding technology: restoration of refurbishment of damaged parts, surface coating against corrosion or wear, and rapid proto typing. the present work described a study of the optimization of the laser cladding of Co based coatings (Diamalloy 4060NS) on medium carbon steel C45 (AISI 1945). After laser treatment, the surface of the substrate materials is improved in terms of resistance against corrosion; this confirmed in the analysis performed afterwards. it is also shown that the corrosion barrier properties have direct correlation with the laser cladding variables. (Author) 10 refs