Microstructure and Tribo-Behavior of WC–Cr3C2–Ni Coatings by Laser Cladding and HVAF Sprayed: A Comparative Assessment

SK5 steel is the base material used for the preparation of the wrinkle scraper, whose service life strongly affects the working efficiency and economic benefits. In this work, WC–Cr3C2–Ni coating was deposited on the SK5 steel substrate by using High-velocity air fuel spray (HVAF) and Laser cladding (LC) processes respectively, named HVAF-WC coating and LC-WC coating. The microstructure and wear resistance of both coatings were analyzed, and were compared with the substrate sample. Results showed that the coatings were adhesive well onto the substrate. More WC with fine crystals is retained in HVAF-WC coating due to low flame flow temperature, while WC of LC-WC coating is characterized by columnar crystals. The wear rate of HVAF-WC and LC-WC coating was 4.00 × 10−7 mm3/(N•m) and 3.47 × 10−6 mm3/(N•m), respectively, which was two and one orders of magnitude lower than SK5 steel with 3.54 × 10−5 mm3/Nm. HVAF-WC coating exhibited the best wear resistance because of significant fine grain strengthening, which wear mechanism is mainly dominated by abrasive wear. Thus, it was thought that HVAF-WC coating is more effective ways to improve the wear resistance of SK5 steel, comparing with LC-WC coating.