Influence of the deposition techniques on the mechanical properties and microstructure of NiCrBSi coatings

The influence of processing conditions on microstructure and mechanical properties of NiCrBSi coatings deposited on a steel substrate has been studied. Three different techniques were used: laser cladding, flame sprayed combined with surface flame treatment and flame sprayed combined with laser treatment. The microstructure of the coatings was determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX). Similar phases were observed in the three coatings, but their morphology and distribution were dependent on the deposition technique. Wear and indentation tests have also been carried out. Laser cladded coatings exhibit the higher hardness and the smaller wear rate. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.