Effect of Mo- and SiC-Reinforced NiCr Microwave Cladding on Microstructure, Mechanical and Wear Properties

Abstract

A microwave hybrid heating technique was applied to produce the NiCr-Mo-SiC composite cladding on Titan-31. The developed claddings were tested for microstructural features, phase analysis, microhardness, and surface roughness parameters using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Vickers Microhardness, and 3D optical profilometers, respectively. Using a static alumina indenter on microwave clads, the linear reciprocator ball on plate wear test was performed. Both friction and wear track metrics have been studied. A dense microstructure without observable holes or fractures has been achieved, together with a homogeneous distribution of hard phases and strong metallurgical bonding. Cladding is typically three times tougher than the underlying metal. Due to the formation of hard carbide phases, which increased hardness and internal lubricity, cladding has a lower coefficient of friction than the substrate. © 2023, The Institution of Engineers (India).