Research on microstructure and properties of laser cladding Ti-Al-WC composite coating on TC4 surface

Abstract To improve the surface properties of TC4, laser cladding was used to prepare Ti-Al-WC composite coatings with varying WC content on the surface of TC4. XRD and SEM were used to examine the physical phase composition and microstructure of the coatings. At various WC contents, the microhardness distribution and wear friction properties of the coatings were also examined. The results revealed a strong metallurgical connection between the cladding layer and the matrix. When no WC was present, the coating was mostly formed of TiAl and Ti 3 Al phases; however, when WC was present, the coating also contained WC, TiC, W 2 C, and MAX phases, as well as a minor amount of partially dissolved WC particles. When compared to the substrate, the average hardness of the coating was increased by 1.08-1.76 times. When the WC content was 20 and the wear amount was 1.9 mg, the best wear resistance was obtained. Mainly abrasive and adhesive wear was observed.