Characterization of WC-Co deposited through additive manufacturing (AM) using the Direct Energy Deposition (DED) method

Abstract

Currently, the manufacture of parts and their tools for series production and exclusive, such as molds and dies, faces a new challenge: maximum precision, flexibility and high production speed. This research project aims to characterize the deposition of tungsten carbide agglomerated with cobalt (WC-Co) in AISI H13 and 4140 steels by means of additive manufacturing (AM) using the Direct Energy Deposition (DED) Powder-fed method laser system. The laser MA-DED Powder-fed system process is a recent technology and, for the development of coatings on parts, a complete study of the deposition parameters is required for the use of other materials as raw material. The depositions produced will be evaluated in order to verify the manufacturing parameters. Additionally, the proportion of Co for the deposition of powders will be modified. The samples obtained will be characterized using microstructural techniques (SEM / EDS and laser confocal), X-ray diffraction and fluorescence, as well as hardness tests and microadhesive and microabrasive wear tests. The interconnection between these technologies and the quality of the process is an important step in the development of coatings produced by MA. The expected result is to obtain a homogeneous coating, with excellent adhesion to the substrate and high resistance to wear.