Laser Cladding of In Situ Al-AlN Composite on Light Alloys Substrate

In situ metal matrix composites are novel composites in which the reinforcement is formed within the parent alloy by controlling chemical reactions during the composite fabrication. In recent years, there have been attempts to produce AlN composites utilizing the reactions between molten Al and a reactive gas. However, the conventional processing methods are sub-optimal and result in porosity, interface matrix-reinforcement deterioration, and high processing costs. The aim of this research is to develop a methodology to manufacture good-quality in situ Al-AlN composites in a cost effective way. In situ Al-AlN composite was synthesized with a laser cladding equipment. This composite powder can be directly deposited as coating on aluminum alloys conventionally used in the transport sector. The increase in the coatings tribological properties was demonstrated.