Microstructure and Properties of IMI834 Alloy via Ultrasonic-vibration-assisted Laser Cladding

ZHU Xun; LI Ziyi; LI Jiuxiao; JIAO Shiman; DUO Liya; YAN Baisui; CHEN Zheng

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1674-6457.2025.12.022

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Journal of Netshape Forming Engineering ›› 2025, Vol. 17 ›› Issue (12) : 208-216. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6457.2025.12.022

Additive Manufacturing

Microstructure and Properties of IMI834 Alloy via Ultrasonic-vibration-assisted Laser Cladding

ZHU Xun¹, LI Ziyi¹, LI Jiuxiao^1,*, JIAO Shiman¹, DUO Liya¹, YAN Baisui², CHEN Zheng³

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Abstract

The work aims to systematically investigate the effects of ultrasonic power ratios on microstructural evolution, hardness, and tribological performance of IMI834 high-temperature titanium alloy by ultrasonic vibration-assisted laser cladding. Microstructural changes were observed with metallographic microscopes, while 3D surface profiles were analyzed through laser confocal microscopy. Ultrasonic vibration significantly modified the melt pool solidification behavior and microstructure morphology, promoting grain equiaxed growth and refinement with more uniform distribution. The microstructure density and interfacial continuity were notably improved. As the ultrasonic power ratio increased, the microhardness showed an initial rise followed by a decline. At an 8% ultrasonic power ratio, the highest average microhardness was achieved. Additionally, the tribological performance improved with increased vibration intensity. At an 8% ultrasonic power ratio, both the friction coefficient and the wear loss were the lowest, which were 0.45 and 0.008 1 g respectively. In conclusion, ultrasonic vibration effectively enhances the hardness and tribological performance of IMI834 laser cladding. Low power ratios are insufficient to improve wear resistance, while an 8% ultrasonic power ratio delivers optimal performance. Excessive power causes microstructural instability leading to performance degradation. Proper selection of the power window during ultrasonic-assisted laser cladding is crucial for achieving optimal wear resistance.

Key words

laser cladding / ultrasonic vibration / IMI834 titanium alloy / microstructure / friction wear

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ZHU Xun, LI Ziyi, LI Jiuxiao, JIAO Shiman, DUO Liya, YAN Baisui, CHEN Zheng. Microstructure and Properties of IMI834 Alloy via Ultrasonic-vibration-assisted Laser Cladding[J]. Journal of Netshape Forming Engineering. 2025, 17(12): 208-216 https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1674-6457.2025.12.022

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Funding

Artificial Intelligence Promotes Scientific Research Paradigm Reform and Empowers Discipline Leap Plan Project; Sponsored by Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai (25ZR1401150); Xuzhou Science and Technology Achievement Transformation Project (KC23370)