Stability of Titanium Carbide Introduced into a Weldpool

Abstract

The possibility of introduction of titanium carbide into a weldpool is studied. Titanium carbide forms in the metal deposit structure due to proper in situ alloying. However, the in situ technology is rather complicated because of difficulties associated with the impossibility of controlling the factors predetermining the alloying element redistribution between the carbide phase and the matrix. Therefore, attention is frequently given to the introduction of titanium carbide in the finished form (ex situ technology). Titanium carbide particles can be applied as a reinforcing phase in the preparation of wear-resistant coatings using this technology. Titanium carbide is not thermodynamically prone to decomposition and interaction with the chemical elements in the Fe–Ti–C system, demonstrating its high stability. However, experimental studies show that titanium carbide undergoes cracking and dissolution in a weldpool. This process is accompanied by the saturation of the metal with titanium and an increase in its hardness.