Comparison of coaxial and off-axis nozzle configurations in one step process laser cladding on aluminum substrate

Laser cladding of aluminum bronze alloy has been studied in order to increase the wear resistance of aluminum parts. Aiming a more productive and controlled process, this study analyzes the blown powder process, with two possibilities of blowing configurations that are off-axis and coaxial nozzle, and process parameters, such as axial motion speed, mass flow and power modulation. Dilution, catchment efficiency and hardness were analyzed for the used process parameters and nozzle configurations.