Evaluation of the laser assisted double wire with nontransferred arc surfacing process for cladding

Results of the novel laser assisted double wire with nontransferred arc surfacing process will be presented. The process is able to combine high deposition rates of 7.5 kg/h with low dilutions of <5%. Corrosion resistant stainless steel has been welded on a mild steel surface. The coating was tested in order to detect pores and lack of fusion. There were no pores, but small regions with lack of fusion were found between the seams and the intersection of the layers. Due to the size and the position, these weld defects have no relevance in the aimed industrial applications. In order to prove the quality of the welded bonds, tensile tests have been performed. The fracture has always occurred in the mild steel base material and the weld has always stayed intact. Furthermore, the corrosion resistance of the coating was tested using a salt water spray test based on DIN EN ISO 9227. The surface of the tested specimen did not exhibit signs of corrosion. The overall rating for the process performed by the industrial project partner was excellent, with respect to the novelty of the process. With some further developments, the process will be able to save time and expensive welding consumables. All needed components for the process are yet available.