Optimization of impact resistance and fabrication of laser cladded Fe₃Al/Cr₃C₂ mining wear-resistant materials

The middle bottom plate of the scraper conveyor's central trough is subjected to high loads and impacts over time, leading to severe wear. To enhance its wear resistance and impact resistance, laser cladding technology was used to fabricate a cladding layer of Fe₃Al/Cr₃C₂ composite material. The effects of Cr₃C₂ content and Ni-based transition layers on the microstructure, wear resistance, and impact resistance of the cladding layer were comparatively studied. The microstructure of the cladding layer was characterizedusing X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), backscattered electron imaging (BSE), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results indicate that the Cr₃C₂ content significantly affects the wear and impact resistance of the Fe₃Al/Cr₃C₂ cladding layer. During wear, the softer Fe₃Al/Fe₂AlCr matrix phase is first worn away, while the harder M₇C₃ phase effectively supports the abrasive surface, thereby resisting wear. Within a certain range, increasing the Cr₃C₂ content raises the proportion of Fe₂AlCr in the Fe₃Al matrix phase, whose superior plasticity enhances the material's toughness and strength. Moreover, pre-depositing a Ni-based transition layer on the substrate before cladding can effectively enhance the bonding strength between the coating and the substrate. These findings have broad application prospects in the surface strengthening of core components in coal mining equipment.