In the relentless pursuit of enhancing material performance, a team of researchers from the College of Engineering at Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University and the College of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering at Zhaoqing University have made a significant breakthrough. Led by ZHANG Chong, the team has delved into the effects of ultrasonic impact treatment (UIT) on high-entropy alloy coatings, with promising implications for the energy sector.
High-entropy alloys, known for their exceptional mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, are already making waves in industries where durability and performance are paramount. The study, published in ‘Cailiao Baohu’ (Materials Protection), focuses on Al2FeCoNiCrW0.5 high-entropy alloy coatings, prepared using a laser cladding process on 45 steel substrates. The researchers subjected these coatings to ultrasonic impact treatment for varying durations—5 and 10 minutes—to evaluate the impact on microstructure, microhardness, and friction and wear characteristics.
The results are striking. “After treatment by ultrasonic impact, the coating grains were refined and locally reached nanocrystalline size,” ZHANG Chong explains. This refinement led to a continuous improvement in the coating’s hardness, with the maximum surface microhardness reaching an impressive 893 HV0.5 within 10 minutes of treatment. The wear resistance of the coating treated for 10 minutes showed a 20% improvement compared to untreated coatings, with the wear volume reduced to 3.391 mm3 under identical test conditions.
The wear mechanism of the high-entropy alloy coatings also underwent a notable shift. Before treatment, the coatings exhibited abrasive, oxidative, and adhesive wear. Post-treatment, the wear mechanism transitioned to primarily abrasive and oxidative wear, indicating a more stable and resilient surface.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. In environments where equipment is subjected to extreme conditions, such as in oil and gas pipelines or power generation turbines, the enhanced wear resistance and hardness of these coatings could translate to longer equipment lifespans and reduced maintenance costs. This not only improves operational efficiency but also contributes to sustainability by minimizing the need for frequent replacements and repairs.
The research by ZHANG Chong and his team opens up new avenues for material scientists and engineers. By leveraging ultrasonic impact treatment, industries can potentially develop coatings that offer superior performance and longevity. As the demand for durable and efficient materials continues to grow, this study provides a compelling case for integrating advanced treatment methods into the production of high-entropy alloy coatings. The findings published in ‘Cailiao Baohu’ (Materials Protection) offer a glimpse into a future where materials science and engineering converge to create solutions that drive industrial progress.
