Recycled hardmetal-based powder composite coatings: optimisation of composition, structure and properties

Hardfacing is among the most economical methods for surface treatment and service life and efficiency improvement of metal parts subjective to wear. At the same time use of low-cost recycling technologies in the production of powders is of current interest. Focus in this paper is on: a) the production of hardmetal/cermet powders as reinforcements for composite coatings; b) deposition technologies and optimisation of coating structure; c) the wear resistance of coatings at different abrasive wear conditions. The article describes the production and grindability of hardmetal (WC-Co) and cermet (Cr3C2-Ni, TiC-NiMo) powders and their size and shape. Results address the optimisation of the composition and structure of HVOF-sprayed and PTA-welded composite powder coatings based on the commercial spray powders and produced hardmetal/cermet powders. The abrasive wear resistance of coatings at different wear conditions (rubber wheel, erosion and impact wear tests) is analysed.