Laser cladding in repair of IN738 turbine blades

Laser cladding with additive powder can be used for repairing high cost components such as industrial turbine blades. Repair of damaged blades is important for electrical power companies to reduce operating costs. The repair of IN738 gas turbine blades using laser cladding is reviewed. A laser cladding system for blade repair and the associated heat treatment procedures before and after repair are discussed. In general, laser cladding with IN625 powder does not require preheating and can be used for repairing IN738 blades in low stress areas. For laser cladding with a higher strength material, e.g. IN738 powder, preheating to high temperatures is necessary to avoid cracking. In a process simulation, test coupons were employed to compare the microstructures and mechanical properties of the IN738 clad region and base metal. Blade repairs with IN738 additive powder were found to be stronger but much more difficult to process than those with IN625 powder. Therefore, extreme caution is required when repairing IN738 blades in high stress areas using a matching filler metal. © 2008 IHTSE Partnership Published by Maney on behalf of the Partnership.