Laser Surface Hardening of 51CrV4 Steel

Abstract

The work presents the surface changes in microstructure and properties by quenching the 51CrV4 steel from liquid and solid phase, using a CO2 continue laser wave with 900W power. In order to determine the hardening conditions, processing parameters on the geometry of the hardened layer and surface hardness were analyzed. Microhardness profile of heat affected zone was traced and correlated with structural changes. The effect of subsequent tempering was investigated.