Processing of Ni-WC-Cr3C2-based metal matrix composite cladding on SS-316L substrate through microwave irradiation

The present paper reports on the development of metal matrix composite clads of Ni-WC-Cr3C2-based materials through microwave heating route. In this study, metal matrix composite clads were deposited on austenitic stainless steel (SS-316 L) inside a multimode-type domestic microwave oven. Experiment trials were carried out at a microwave power of 900 W and frequency of 2.45 GHz. The optimal exposure time for processing of metal matrix composite clads was varied from 60 to 360 s. The microstructural analysis of processed clads revealed that the metal matrix composite clads of approximately 0.85 mm thickness were free from any type of voids and cracks. The WC and Cr3C2 particles were dispersed inside the Ni matrix. The phase analysis results revealed the formation of Cr7Ni3, NiC, Fe6W6C, Co3W3C4, FeNi3, NiW phases inside the clad layer. The formation of hard carbide phases resulted in higher microhardness of the clad layer. The average value of Vicker's microhardness was observed to be 503 +/- 34 HV, which is almost 1.6 times that of the substrate.