Laser Remelting of Plasma-Sprayed Tungsten Coatings

Laser surface melting was applied on plasma-sprayed tungsten coatings, with the aim to eliminate intersplat voids and improve thermal conductivity. A variety of laser parameters was tested and the morphology and melt depth were evaluated. With the most promising conditions, 2D areas were remelted and thermal conductivity was determined. Improvements in conductivity were observed, but the depth of the remelted layer was quite limited under current conditions. Advantages and limitations of this method, as well as possible directions for improvement are discussed.