Laser cladding of tin based coatings for industrial bearings application

The quality and friction properties of sliding surfaces in industrial bearing are fundamental to their performance. Tin-based coatings applied by centrifugal and static casting are commonly used for bearing lining. Due to limitations of this technology, alternatives for applying the tin-based lining are sought. This study focuses on one possible alternative to applying tin-based coatings - laser cladding. The influence of laser cladding processing parameters on the properties and applicability of tin-based coating is analyzed. The goal of the process optimization is to achieve high productivity with the well-bonded coating without defects. The microstructural of cladded coating as well as the adhesion properties and presented and discussed. The processing parameters which lead to coatings fulfilling manufacturer requirements are selected.