Laser cladding of wear resistant metal matrix composite coatings

A number of coatings with wear-resistant properties as well as with a low friction coefficient are produced by laser cladding The structure of these coatings is determined by required performance and realized as metal matrix composite (MMC), where solid lubricant serves as a ductile matrix (e.g. CuSn), reinforced by appropriate ceramic phase (e.g. WC/Co). One of the engineered coating, with functionally graded material (FGM) structure has a dry friction coefficient 0.12. Coatings were produced by coaxial injection of powder blend into the zone of laser beam action. Metallographic and tribological examinations were carried out confirming the advanced performance of engineered coatings. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.