A Simple but Realistic Model for Laser Cladding

A model which takes into account the main phenomena occurring during the laser-cladding process is proposed. For a given laser power, beam radius, powder jet geometry, and clad height, this model evaluates two other processing parameters, namely, the laser-beam velocity and the powder feed rate. It considers the interactions between the powder particles, the laser beam, and the molten pool. The laser power reaching the surface of the workpiece is estimated and, assuming this power is used to remelt the substrate with the clad having been predeposited, the melt-pool shape is computed using a three-dimensional (3-D) analytical model, which produces immediate results, even on personal computers. The predictions obtained with this numerical model are in good agreement with experimental results. Processing engineers may therefore use this model to choose the correct processing parameters and to establish cladding maps.