Laser‐Cladded Hastelloy C276 Coatings on Nickel‐Aluminum Bronze: Microstructure, Corrosion, and Cavitation Erosion Performance

To enhance the service life and reliability of ship propellers in marine environments, it is critical to improve the corrosion and cavitation erosion resistance of nickel‐aluminum bronze (NAB) alloy, a widely used propeller material. In this study, Hastelloy C276 coating was deposited onto NAB via preplaced powder laser cladding. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion/cavitation behavior of the coating were systematically investigated to assess the influence of process parameters. The results indicate that the C276 coating, reinforced by solid solutions and intermetallic compounds rich in Ni, Mo, and Cr, achieved a maximum hardness of 352.0 HV 0 . 1 , 121.4% higher than that of the NAB substrate (159.0 HV 0 . 1 ). Electrochemical tests demonstrated a 91.3% reduction in corrosion current density and a tenfold increase in polarization resistance compared to the uncoated substrate. Furthermore, cavitation testing in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution after 12 h of cyclic impact revealed that the coating effectively suppressed crack propagation and exhibited a more uniform pit distribution, confirming superior cavitation resistance. These enhancements are attributed to the synergistic effects of high‐hardness γ‐phase solid solutions and the formation of a stable, dense passive film. The findings provide critical technical insights for surface strengthening and extending the operational lifespan of marine components.