Enhancement of brazing performance of Inconel 718 by electroless cobalt coated nickel-based brazing alloys

Effect of electroless cobalt-coated BNi-2 on the brazing performance of Inconel 718 was investigated in this study. A new method for modifying the microstructure and thermal properties of brazing alloys by incorporating cobalt through electroless deposition was introduced. This approach offers a more controlled and uniform alloy modification compared to conventional mechanical mixing techniques, enhancing the performance of the brazed joints. The introduction of cobalt into the filler material influences the microstructural evolution and refining the joint structure by reducing brittle precipitates. Microstructural analysis confirms that the Co-coated BNi-2 results in a more homogeneous joint with improved phase distribution. Mechanical characterization indicated that the shear strength increased nearly 4.5 times, while fracture strain improved approximately fourfold. Moreover, the cobalt addition raised the solidus temperature of the filler alloy by 25–30 °C, contributing to better high-temperature stability. These findings highlight the effectiveness of electroless cobalt coating in optimizing brazing alloys for demanding aerospace and high-temperature applications.