Effect of preheating substrates and process parameters on cladding track geometry fabricated by laser cladding

Laser cladding (LC) is an advanced technique used for repairing large-scale components, such as rotors and valves, in thermal power plants and steel rolling mills. This technology is designed to facilitate efficient repairs, minimize repair costs, conserve materials, reduce processing time, and ensure adequate dilution between the substrate material and the deposited coating, while also enhancing corrosion resistance. In this research, the effects of preheating substrates and input process parameters on the geometric accuracy of single-track deposits, as well as the microstructure composition of multi-track deposits, were investigated. The Taguchi method was used to design an L9 orthogonal experimental array. The impact of process parameters, including substrate temperature, laser power, and scanning speed, on the morphology of a single track (track width, height, penetration depth, and dilution) was evaluated through ANOVA statistical analysis. SS316L stainless steel, recognized for its wear resistance, was used as the deposition material. The findings reveal that substrate temperature is the most critical factor influencing the dilution of the coating. Additionally, the microstructure of the deposited layers were systematically analyzed.