Laser cladding
Laser cladding is an advanced powder welding process in which metal powder is fused onto the surface of a component using a concentrated laser beam. Thanks to the low heat input, the base material remains virtually stress-free, which minimizes deformation and guarantees precision.
This technique is mainly used for components that have to perform in extremely abrasive or corrosive conditions.
How Does the Process Work?
In laser cladding, metal powder is continuously fed into the focal point of a powerful laser beam. This melts the powder and a thin layer of the substrate, creating a strong metallurgical bond between the component and the clad layer.The process allows for highly controlled heat input, resulting in:
- Residual stresses remain limited
- The risk of deformation or cracking is minimal.
- Thin and precise layers can be built up in multiple passes
Advantages
Minimal deformation of the workpiece
Strong adhesion thanks to metallurgical bonding
Highly accurate control over layer thickness and composition
Suitable for both wear and corrosion protection
Typical applications
Laser cladding is ideal for use on critical components in sectors such as offshore, chemical, and energy, including:
- Wear-resistant coating for shafts and piston rods
- Corrosion-resistant cladding of pump components and valves
- Repairs of high-quality components with tight tolerances
- Coating of tools or molds
Typical materials
- Nickel- and cobalt-based alloys
- Stainless steel
- Hard metal composites
- Metal powders custom-blended according to wear requirements
Capabilities at Plasmajet
Thanks to recent developments, Plasmajet can also weld internal bores from a diameter of 75 mm to a depth of 1200 mm.
Do you also require a coating with high precision and low heat input?
Laser cladding is the ideal choice for fragile or critical components.
