Microstructure, wear resistance and microhardness of W-particle-strengthened Ti6Al4V composite produced with laser metal deposition

The objective of this work was to investigate a Ti6Al4V/W composite coated by means of the laser-power process. The microhardness profile, microstructure and wear properties of W particles, produced with laser metal deposition (LMD), were explored. Different power-flow rates were used in the study, ranging from 800 kW to 1400 kW, with the other parameters kept constant. The results showed that the LMD process allows the production of a suitable bond between the substrate zone and the clad zone. It was found that LMD has a direct effect on the microhardness and microstructures. The microhardness and wear resistance of the deposited material produced with LMD were higher than those of the Ti6Al4V substrate. The wear result obtained at a laser power of 1000 W revealed better wear resistance than that of the composite coating obtained at 900 W or 1200 W.