Heterogeneous surface layer modification by high concentrated energy source for tribological applications

Numerous research centres all over the world are involved in the studying laser surface modification. By controlling laser parameters such as the amount of power, scanning speed, and pulse duration, it is possible to form coatings with different surface properties. Theses include surface geometry, microhardness, stress states or resistance to wear. One of the cheapest and common use techniques is electro spark alloying (ESA) or electro spark deposition (ESD), which, like laser treatment, requires a focused stream of energy. Laser surface texturing technology has significant advantages as sliding friction decrease. It gives direct wear improvement for tribilogical pairs seen in many industry applications. The work reported here centres on empirical Cu-Mo coatings studies generated by using Nd: YAG laser system. The coatings were first deposited as an ELFA-541 on C45 carbon steel and than laser eroded within various process parameters. The analysis included macrogeometry and microhardness measurement of selected areas after laser treatment.