Optimization of Process Parameters for Laser Cladding Fe35A Alloy on 45 Steel Surface

To improve the service life of a mining hydraulic column, an Fe35A alloy layer was prepared on the surface of 45 steel material by laser cladding technology. The cladding layer, which was prepared using different laser powers, scanning speeds, and powder feeding rates, was tested using digital testing equipment to study the surface hardness, geometric size, microstructure, and sectional microhardness of the sample, and the optimal process parameters for laser cladding were obtained. Results show that under the optimal laser cladding parameters of 2100 W laser power, scanning speed of 5 mm/s, and powder feeding rate of 15 g/min, the quality of the cladding layer is the best, the microstructure of the cladding layer are good, the grain size is fine and uniform, and the fusion between the matrix structure and the cladding layer is satisfactory, the hardness of the cladding layer surface is 42 HRC, and the average microhardness of the cross-section of the cladding layer is 643 HV. The comprehensive mechanical properties of the laser cladding layer are higher than those of the matrix structure. The preparation of Fe35A alloy coating with high-quality on 45 steel substrate is realized.