Laser cladding of aluminium on AISI 304 stainless steel with high-power diode lasers

Correlations between the main processing parameters (i.e. laser beam scanning speed, irradiance, and powder feeding rate) and the main geometrical characteristics of the clad track (height, width, and depth) were determined using a full factorial method. Furthermore, the microstructure of the coatings and the influence of the processing parameters on the costs associated to the process were examined. These relationships lead to the determination of processing maps in order to be used as a guideline for the selection of proper processing parameters for laser cladding of aluminium and alloys.