Parameters Optimization of the Laser Cladding of a Fe-based VC Composite Coating Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

In order to acquire good Fe-based VC composite coating by laser cladding and minimize cracks and pores during preparation, we designed an experimental scheme with response surface methodology (RSM) and studied effects of laser process parameters, such as output current, pulse width, pulse frequency, and scanning speed, on geometric characteristics and quality of the clad coating. A mathematical model was established for clad geometric features and dilution rate. Analysis of variance of test results shows that, the greater the pulse width, the greater the clad dilution rate; synergy of large output current and low scanning speed will give rise to greater clad width-to-height ratio. Through analysis and discussion, a set of optimum laser process parameters were obtained, and based on verification test, the errors between predicted value and measured value for the optimum process parameters were small, indicating high confidence level of this regression prediction model.