Titanium Metal Matrix Composite Laser Coatings Based on Carbides

Laser cladding is an adequate technique to fabricate Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) layers because of its focused high energy which allows the partial melting of hard ceramic reinforces particles like carbides. Thus, the wettability and gradual transition between metal and particle can be improved. However, metastable or new intermetallic phases can be formed during laser processing due to severe thermal cycle imposed to the clad with unknown properties in some cases. In this work our experience on microstructural analysis of Ti-MMC coatings acquired during the last five years is summarized. Special attention is paid on carbide dilution and secondary carbides formation mechanisms when TiC, SiC, Cr3C2, WC and B4C are mixed with titanium alloys.