Characterization and Wear Properties of Fe3Al and (Fe,Ti)3Al Intermetallic Claddings Produced by GTAW Process

Abstract

In this study, Fe₃Al and (Fe,Ti)₃Al intermetallic coatings were applied on the surface of CK45 steel by GTAW process. For this purpose, Fe₃Al and (Fe,Ti)₃Al intermetallic powders were synthesized by mechanical alloying. Phase analysis of powders and coatings was carried out by X-ray diffractometery. The microstructure of the coatings was evaluated by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The wear behavior of the coatings was characterized by reciprocal wear test. It was found that Fe₃Al and (Fe,Ti)₃Al coatings were deposited successfully on the surface of substrate. The addition of Ti into Fe–Al system enhanced the hardness of the coating due to the dissolution of Ti in lattice and therefore distortion of crystal structure. In FA2 coating (Fe₇₅Al₂₅, 2 weldings) synergic effect of abrasive and adhesive wear mechanisms increased the wear of coating as compared with FAT2 coating (Fe50Al25Ti25, 2 weldings), while the main wear mechanism of FAT2 coating was microcutting abrasive wear.