New developments in surface technology. Laser alloying using Mo/VC and Mn

Laser beam alloying of forging and diecasting tools with additional materials has proved in industry its ability to modify the chemical composition and thereby the properties of the surface layers. This results in a manifold increase in tool life. Relying on this knowledge, new surface layers for tools and components were systematically developed. For example, the additional alloying with molybdenum (Mo) and vanadium carbide (VC) significantly increases the tool hardness retention, high temperature-hardness, and not wear resistance. By alloying with manganese (Mn), it is possible to improve the wear properties of surface layers for components that undergo heavy impact load. This contribution will contain the scientific and fundamental characteristics of surface layers produced in this manner, as well as their analysis with regards to operational properties.