RECLAMATION OF WORN MACHINERY PARTS BY ARC SPRAYING

Reclamation of worn machinery parts was achieved by metal spraying which consists of depositing a metal (or alloy) droplets on the worn surface. This process is a delicate art and requires comprehensive information about processing parameters, automation and/or personal skills. In this investigation, the effects of surface preparation, spraying voltage, spraying pressure, inert gas media, and spraying distance were studied. The microstructure obtained under different working conditions were examined by SEM and conventional metallography. Shear strength of the interface was measured. Proper conditions resulted in a high adhesion between the substrate and the deposited layer. Several automotive parts including a balance shaft, a distributor shaft and a heavy crank shaft were repaired using 308L and 310L stainless steels, and were put in service for testing.