Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ni-WC Thermal Sprayed Composite Coatings

The paper presents results of investigations of the microstructure and selected properties of improved composite coatings consisting mainly of nickel matrix reinforced by WC particles. The coatings were obtained by flame spraying of powders mixture on non-alloy steel substrates with following material remelting. Structural investigations were performed using both optical and electron microscopy. The distribution of microhardness and abrasion resistance of deposited coatings were also determined. The complex structure of coatings and resulting high wear withstand are the consequence of an intensive action of liquid matrix with dissolving tungsten carbide particles and formation of secondary phases.