Microstructure and selected properties of boronized layers produced on C45 and CT90 steels after modification by diode laser

Abstract The paper presents the study results of macro- and microstructure, microhardness and corrosion resistance of C45 medium carbon steel and CT90 high carbon steel after diffusion boriding and laser modification by diode laser. It was found that the increase of carbon content reduced the thickness of boronized layer and caused change in their morphology. Diffusion boronized layers were composed of FeB and Fe2B iron borides. As a result of laser surface modification of these layers, the microstructure composed of three areas: remelted zone, heat affected zone (HAZ) and the substrate was obtained. Microhardness of laser remelting boronized layer in comparison with diffusion boronized layer was lower. The presence of HAZ was advantageous, because mild microhardness gradient between the layer and the substrate was assured. The specimens with laser boronized layers were characterized by better corrosion resistance than specimens without modified layer.