Optimization of Process Parameters for Laser Remelting Nickel Coating

Nickel coating exhibits excellent wear resistance. To further improve its surface performance, laser remelting technology was employed in this study to modify the surface of nickel coating. In this study, pulsed laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm, pulse duration of 5 ms and laser spot diameter of 2 mm was employed to conduct remelting strengthening treatment on the nickel-based coating deposited on pure copper substrate. The effects of laser frequency and energy density on the coating were investigated by characterizing the surface morphology, microhardness, three-dimensional topography, and wear resistance of the laser-remelted samples. The results indicate that laser frequency influences the surface properties mainly by changing the overlapping ratio of the remelted spots. Laser energy density affects the remelting zone and thereby modifies the surface characteristics of the sample. When the laser frequency is 10 Hz and the energy density is 165.87 J/mm², the sample obtains favorable surface roughness and wear resistance.