The role of thermal spray parameters on structure and properties of cermet coatings

The diploma thesis investigates the influence of thermal spray process parameters on the properties of composite coatings, specifically WC-CrC-Ni and WC-Co-Cr coatings deposed onto an austenitic steel substrate. The main objectives were characterization of sprayed deposition and creation of process maps. The theoretical part included the most important details about the manufacturing process, properties, consolidation and application of cermet materials. The methodical part is devoted to a description of analytical methods and devices used for the characterization of coatings microstructure and its mechanical properties. The practical part provides information acquired from analytical devices. It contains details about surface roughness, hardness, porosity, indentation modulus, corrosion potential and corrosion current density. The chemical composition of coatings and powder mixtures was analyzed by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). For more accurate determination of developed phases X-ray diffraction was used. During the coatings characterization various procedures were developed. It is expected that these procedures would be implemented in another optimization of spraying conditions. Results obtained in the practical part were discussed in discussion and compared with the results from several research studies. Conclusions summarize results obtained in practical part