The effect of ultrasound on the synergistic improvement of strength and plasticity of laser-cladded AlCoCrFeNi2.1 coatings

Abstract

Ultrasound may enhance the concurrent formation of the B2 (AlNi) phase in conjunction with the FCC (CrFeCo) matrix phase during the laser cladding process. This enhancement leads to a reduction in the interphase distance and promotes a strong bonding interaction between the two phases. In comparison to the coatings prepared without ultrasonic assistance, the ultrasonic-assisted coatings exhibit a reduction in the average wear coefficient from 0.4439 to 0.4022, and a decrease in the mass wear rate from 8.8 × 10⁻⁴ g/m to 6.4 × 10⁻⁴ g/m. When compared to coatings fabricated without the aid of ultrasonic assistance, those produced with ultrasonic exhibit enhanced tensile strength and elongation, with values rising from 1487 MPa to 10.77 % to 2037 MPa and 17.28 %, respectively. Additionally, there is a notable change in the fracture morphology, shifting from clearly defined tearing edges to a more homogeneous ductile dimple structure. Coatings produced with the aid of ultrasound demonstrate an enhanced capacity to transfer tensile loads from the FCC phase to the high-strength B2 phase during the tensile process. This mechanism promotes the full exploitation of the synergistic effects of strength and toughness that exist between the two phases.