A review on coatings deposited by extreme high-speed laser cladding: processes, materials, and properties

In recent years, the industry has required critical parts with excellent high-temperature resistance, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and other properties. Preparing high-performance coatings on part surfaces is considered an efficient and economical method. As a new surface treatment technology, extreme high-speed laser cladding (EHLA) has attracted increasing attention owing to its high cladding efficiency and rapid cooling rate. EHLA can maintain good metallurgical bonding between coating and substrate at low heat input. It can significantly promote the refinement of microstructure and uniform composition distribution. In addition, optimization of EHLA parameters allows for control of coating thickness and inhibition of defect formation. This paper introduces the research progress of extreme high-speed laser cladding technology in detail from cladding process optimization, process simulations, material systems, and defect types. The setting of process parameters, the factors affecting the EHLA coating performance, and the formation mechanism of defects are also summarized.