On the Microstructure, Microhardnessand Wear Behavior of Gray Cast Iron Surface Layer after Laser Strengthening

Cast iron is one of the most common structural materials and is widely used in mechanical engineering production. Taking into account its rather low mechanical properties, different technologies are currently used in industry, among other areas, for the mechanical and thermal strengtheningof the surface layer, as well as surface alloying of workpieces. The aim of this study was a comprehensive analysis of changes in the microstructure, microhardness of the surface layer and its wear resistance under lubrication friction conditions and changed surface energy density in order to ensure the effectiveness of laser strengthening of gray cast iron. In this research, the efficiency of gray cast iron GJL200 laser strengthening was described. The basic properties of the surface layer of gray cast iron under laser strengthening, including the microstructure, microhardness, tribological and wear behavior, were compared with the properties of cast iron in the initial state. It was found that laser strengthening under the right choice of the surface energy density ensured a five-to-tenfold increase in the wear resistance of gray cast iron in comparison with the initial state. This was due to forming unconventional pseudo-vermicular graphite shapes at the friction zone, as well as a spongy-capillary effect appearance. The appropriate selection of surface energy density values provided stable and low coefficients of friction and a very significant increase in the wear resistance compared with the values reached for a cast iron in the initial state. This fact is new and very important for the engineering practice. The values of the surface energy density can be easily controlled, which means that different parts can be operated efficiently after laser strengthening.