Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Tungsten-Inert-Gas-Clad TiB₂/Mo/Cr Composite Coating on AISI 304 Stainless Steel

This study explores the application of TiB₂-Mo-Cr composite coatings on AISI 304 stainless steel using Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) cladding to enhance durability and wear resistance. The research investigates the effects of varying currents on the coating’s microstructure, phase composition, microhardness, and wear properties. x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the formation of TiB₂, TiB, MoB, Cr₂Ti, and Fe₂B phases, while energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence of Ti, B, Cr, Mo, and Fe elements in the coating. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated uniform powder dispersion and excellent interfacial bonding without voids or cracks. The composite coating exhibited a significant increase in microhardness, reaching up to 1393 HV_0.1 compared to the substrate’s 203 HV_0.1. Wear tests showed that the TiB₂-Mo-Cr cladding layer had a substantially lower wear loss of 6.68 × 10⁻⁸ g/N-m, making it 4.57 times more wear-resistant than the substrate. These findings highlight the potential of TiB₂-Mo-Cr coatings applied by TIG cladding for improving the performance and longevity of critical components in high-end equipment subjected to demanding service conditions.