Effects of laser on the non-smooth surface in improving the durability of hot forging tools

One of the key factors determining the lifetime or durability of hot forging tools is their resistance to wearing. The application of laser technology to prepare a non-smooth unit on the surface of hot forging tools has been found to be an effective method in improving the lifetime or durability of the hot forging tools. In this study, laser non-smooth surfaces were prepared by laser texturing technology on the surface of hot forging tools used in factories. The microstructure and the phase composition of the non-smooth unit were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Moreover, the wear resistance of the unit at different angles was also examined. Three representative unit angles were identified on the surface of the hot forging tools for the actual application in the factory. Similar results of wearing were observed in the laboratory and the actual application test in the factory. The results show that the smaller the angle of the non-smooth unit, the higher the wear resistance of the non-smooth surface. It was evidently confirmed that the 0 degrees unit ensures the best wear resistance and provides the longest durability to the hot forging tools.