Multi-Scale-Structured Composite Coatings by Plasma-Transferred Arc for Nuclear Applications

In nuclear plants, the replacement of hardfacing Stellite, a cobalt-based alloy, on parts of the piping system in connection with the reactor has been investigated since the late 60’s. Various Fe-based or Ni-based alloys, Co-free or with a low content of Co, have been developed but with mechanical properties generally lower than that of Stellites. The 4th generation nuclear plants impose additional or more stringent requirements for hardfacing materials. Plasma-transferred arc (PTA) coatings of cobalt-free nickel-based alloys with the addition of sub-micrometric or micrometric alumina particles are thought to be a potential solution for tribological applications in the primary system of sodium-cooled fast reactors. In this study, PTA coatings of nickel-based alloys reinforced with alumina particles were deposited on 316L stainless steel substrates. Under the conditions of this study, the addition of alumina particles resulted in a refinement of coating microstructure and the improvement of their resistance to abrasive wear. However, it does not bring about any change in coating micro-hardness.