Microstructure and Properties of Ni-WC Composite Plasma Clad

aims: This study aims to improve the surface properties of 45 steel to broaden its applications. background: 45 Steel is an important material for the development of human society and civilisation,and plays an important role in human production and life. Ni-based composite coatings are widely used in metal workpieces to improve the surface properties and expand its applications. objective: In this study, Ni-WC composite coating was prepared on 45 steel substrates by plasma cladding. The microstructure, microhardness, residual stress, and corrosion resistance properties were analyzed to examine various influencing factors. method: In this study, the plasma cladding technique was employed to produce Ni-based cladding with different WC contents on 45 steel surfaces. The microstructure, phase structure, microhardness, residual stress, and corrosion resistance of Ni-based cladding coatings were investigated. result: The results showed that the coatings are made up mostly of Ni3Fe, Cr23C6, Cr7C3, WC, and W2C phases. conclusion: The microhardness of the Ni-based alloy coatings is greatly increased due to the presence of WC hard phase on the Ni matrix. The highest microhardness is more than tripling that of the substrate with the addition of 60% WC. In addition, the largest residual stress at the center of the cladding channel is more than five times higher than the substrate affected zone. The corrosion resistance of 45 steels containing Ni-based coatings increases in acidic, neutral and alkaline environments due to the formation of passivation films. other: none