Comparison between diode laser and TIG cladding of Co-based alloys on the SUS403 stainless steel

Diode laser and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) cladding were carried out for depositing Co-based alloys (Stellite-6) on SUS403 martensitic stainless steel plate. Cladding layer shape, dilution, Vickers hardness, Dendrite Arm Spacing (DAS) value, microstructure, distribution of alloying elements and wear resistance were investigated. Compared with TIG clad layer, the laser cladding layer have the characters of small dilution rate, fine microstructure, narrow heat-affected zone (HAZ), narrow alloy elements segregation, high Vickers hardness, excellent wear-resistance, high contents of alloy elements and low contents of Fe in the clad layers.