Structure and properties of WC-10Co4Cr coatings obtained with high velocity atmospheric plasma spraying

Introduction. Carbon steel is often used for the manufacture of various machine parts, but its operation in aggressive conditions (operation of steel parts under conditions of wear, high temperatures and aggressive corrosive environments) contributes to an extreme decline in properties, up to failure. To solve this problem the modification of the working surfaces of steel parts can be used. It increases its wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and service life. Metal-ceramic coatings based on WC are often used to improve the hardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance of steel parts. The work purpose is to study the effect of high velocity atmospheric plasma spraying (HV-APS) modes on the structure, phase composition and properties of WC-Co coatings. Materials and methods. 86% WC-10% Co-4% Cr coatings were deposited on a mild steel substrate with help of the HV-APS method. The structure and phase composition of the coatings were analyzed using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray phase analysis. In addition, the results of measurements of porosity, microhardness, wear resistance, as well as a qualitative assessment of the adhesion are shown in this paper. Results and discussion. It is shown that all coatings are characterized by high density, absence of cracks and oxide films. Using the SEM and XRD methods, it is found that the coatings contain WC and W2C particles uniformly distributed in the metal matrix. The matrix is an amorphous or nanocrystalline supersaturated Co(W,C) solid solution. The maximum amount of carbides (49%) is observed in coatings obtained by deposition from a distance of 170 mm, arc current — 140 A; the minimum (25%) is observed in coatings obtained by deposition from a distance of 250 mm, arc current — 200 A. The coatings with the maximum amount of carbides have the maximum values of microhardness (1,284 HV0.1) and wear resistance. It is established that all coatings are characterized by high adhesion.