Optimization of process parameters of laser composite surfaced Ti-13Nb-13Zr using Taguchi method

Abstract

In the current study, laser composite surfacing (LCS) of Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy has been undertaken by preplacing graphite coating (thickness of 250 μm) and subsequent laser melting with a 6.6 kW fibre optics delivered diode laser (mode: continuous wave) at varied power and scan speed. Based on the performance of the surface measured by microhardness, wear, and corrosion resistance; process parameters were optimized utilizing the Taguchi method. Analysis was conducted by the grey relational grade (GRG) and signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios of the output parameters. The derived optimal parameters were 1000 W applied power and 20 mm/s scan speed. Maximum improvement in microhardness (by 2 times), nanohardness (by 2.6 times), wear resistance (by 5.8 times) and corrosion resistance properties (by 6 times) were achieved after the LCS process. The investigation helps to establish an efficient process for Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy fabricated by LCS.