Microstructure and Wear Behaviors of Plasma-Sprayed MoAlB Ceramic Coating

MoAlB ceramic coatings were prepared on a 316 steel surface by atmospheric plasma spraying with different arc power levels. The phase composition, microstructure and wear resistance of coatings against GCr15 and Si3N4 counterparts were studied. The MoAlB ceramic decomposed and was oxidized to form MoB and Al2O3 during plasma spraying. With the increase of the arc power, MoAlB experienced more decomposition, but the coatings became denser. When the arc power increased from 30 to 36 kW, the wear rates of coatings against GCr15 and Si3N4 balls reduced by 91% and 78%, respectively. The characterization of wear tracks shows that when against GCr15 counterparts, the main wear mechanisms are abrasive and adhesive wear, and when against Si3N4 counterparts, fatigue and abrasive wear are dominant. The refinement of wear resistance by increasing arc power can be attributed to the improvement of density and adhesive strength among splats.