Comparative Analysis of Laser and Plasma Surfacing by Nickel-Based Superalloy of Heat Resistant Steel

Abstract

In this article, the results of surfacing technology development, and structural, and mechanical properties examinations of 16Mo3 steel pipes with an outside coating of Inconel 625 deposited by automated plasma powder transferred arc (PPTA) and automated high power direct diode laser (HPDDL) surfacing were presented. Based on the results of non-destructive, metallographical macro- and microscopic, chemical composition, and thickness and hardness examinations optimal technology for use in high temperature energy or chemical industry applications was selected. The examinations conducted for each of the aforementioned technologies revealed the proper structure and high quality of coating. Dendritic structure with primary crystals growing in the direction of heat dissipation was revealed. No defects such as cracks, lack of fusion or porosity were found. Iron content in the most outer area of the layer made by PPTA with a heat input of 277–514 J/mm, thickness from 1.2 to 1.7 mm, between 4% and 5.5% was observed. Iron content in the most outer area of the layer made by HPDDL surfacing with output power of 1000–1600 W and scanning speed 3.3–4.7mm/s, from 0.6 to 1.3 mm in thickness, between 5.1% and 7.5% was observed. In coated pipes made by either technology high quality of surfaced layers, conforming to requirements posed on protective layers manufactured for prolonged exploitation in temperatures up to 625 °C, were observed. High temperature resistance examinations are the focus of further, yet unpublished, research. The obtained results point to slight differences in the parameters and properties of nickel-based superalloy layers surfaced on 16Mo3 pipes based on the technologies used. However, the process parameters optimization in the case of PPTA was simpler compared to HPDDL surfacing.