Long Pulse Laser Wire Deposition of Hard Steels

Laser deposition of hard steel wires on martensitic stainless steel substrates has been investigated in order to evaluate the possibility of performing localized mold repairs. An experimental campaign has been carried out to assess the role of the deposition strategy and process parameters such as pulse duration, peak power and frequency on process outcome. The extent of the dilution layer between the substrate and deposited track, as well as tempering effects due to the mutual interaction between tracks and layers, are studied as functions of process parameters in order to assess the characteristics of the deposited tracks. In particular, it is observed that under suitable conditions hard (HV>550) deposits can be achieved with minimal tempering effects even in the case of multiple tracks and layers.