PROPERTIES OF ELECTRO-SPARK COATINGS DEPOSITED ON THE STEEL SUBSTRATE USING THE TUNGSTEN CARBIDE-CERAMIC ELECTRODES

摘要

The processes of coating formation on metallic parts including electro-spark deposition involve mass and energy transport, accompanied by chemical, electrochemical and electrothermal reactions. The paper concerns the performance properties of electro-spark deposited coatings. The properties were assessed by analysing the coating microstructure, X-ray diffraction, microgeometry, microhardness, corrosion resistance and application tests. The studies were conducted using WC-Co-Al2O3 electrodes, produced by sintering nanostructural powders. The anti-wear coatings were deposited by electro-spark over C45 carbon steel by means of an EIL-8A. These coatings are likely to be applied to increase the abrasive wear resistance of tools and machine parts.