On the Influence of Heat Input on Ni-WC GMAW Hardfaced Coating Properties

Hardfacing is one of the techniques used for part lifecycle elongation. Despite being used for over 100 years, there still is much to discover, as modern metallurgy provides more and more sophisticated alloys, which then have to be studied to find the best technological parameters in order to fully utilize complex material properties. One of the most efficient and versatile hardfacing approaches is Gas Metal Arc Welding technology (GMAW) and its cored-wire equivalent, known as FCAW (Flux-Cored/Cored Arc Welding). In this paper, the authors study the influence of heat input on the geometrical properties and hardness of stringer weld beads fabricated from cored wire consisting of macrocrystalline tungsten carbides in a nickel matrix. The aim is to establish a set of parameters which allow to manufacture wear-resistant overlays with high deposition rates, preserving all possible benefits of this heterogenic material. This study shows, that for a given diameter of the Ni-WC wire, there exists an upper limit of heat input beyond which the tungsten carbide crystals may exhibit undesired segregation at the root.

Automated summary

Hardfacing is a commonly used technique for extending the lifecycle of machine parts. This study focuses on the influence of heat input on the properties of weld beads fabricated from cored wire, consisting of tungsten carbides in a nickel matrix. The aim is to establish optimal parameters for manufacturing wear-resistant overlays with high deposition rates. The study highlights the importance of controlling heat input to avoid undesired segregation.