Microstructure and mechanical properties of TiC-Ni coating on AISI304 steel produced by TIG cladding process

TiC-Ni composite coating was produced by preplacing a powder mixture of TiC and Ni on AISI 304 steel substrate and subsequent TIG cladding process. A hard and wear resistance composite coating with improved bonding between the TiC particles and the steel matrix was obtained due to the incorporation of Ni powder. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the presence of TiC and some intermetallic of Ni and Ti in the coating; those are responsible for the superior interfacial bonding and consequently higher wear resistance of the coating. The microstructure of the coating analysed through FESEM micrographs revealed that the applied current has a significant influence on the microstructure and corresponding mechanical properties. Based on the heat input, dilution of TiC on Ni-steel matrix regulates the microhardness and corresponding wear properties of the coating. Pin-on-disc type abrasive wear test performed against alumina abrasive disc shows that the TiC-Ni coating exhibit up to seventy times better wear resistance than the AISI 304 steel substrate.