Influence of Laser Reconditioning on Fatigue Properties of Crankshafts

Expensive machine parts often are repaired by additive processes to limit costs and increase productivity. However, repairing marine diesel engine crankshafts for these aims is not yet approved by the classification societies since the influence on mechanical properties can neither be predicted nor has been investigated sufficiently. A method for testing the influence of laser cladding on fatigue properties of marine crankshafts is presented. Tests on flat specimen indicated a drop in fatigue strength in consequence of laser cladding. The number of bearable load cycles of cladded crankshaft segments at 100% fatigue strength calculated according to CIMAC standards dropped. Origins of cracks could be traced back to cladded areas as well as to crankshaft fillets.