Development of Fe–Cr–Si deposited layer manufactured by laser directed energy deposition process

Abstract

In this study, the mechanical and corrosion characteristics of a corrosion-resistant layer made of stainless steel (STS) 316 L and Fe–Cr–Si alloy powder were investigated using laser-directed energy deposition (DED). In the STS 316 L deposited specimen, both the substrate and deposited layer were face-centred cubic (FCC). The deposited Fe–Cr–Si layer was clearly separated from the substrate because it was composed of body-centred cubic (BCC). Despite the phase differences, the surface of the Fe–Cr–Si-deposited layer showed a lower corrosion rate than that of the STS 316 L. All the deposited specimens exhibited typical high-temperature tensile behavior. However, the Fe–Cr–Si deposited layer at 600 °C showed a notable reduction in strength and increased elongation compared to the room temperature (RT) and 300 °C test results owing to the carbide concentration and phase transformation in the deposited layer. Because nuclear facilities mainly operate at temperatures below 600 °C, Fe–Cr–Si materials can also be used as nuclear piping coating materials. This study provides a mechanism for the high-temperature properties and corrosion resistance of the Fe–Cr–Si deposited layer and makes it competitive for application in fourth generation nuclear power systems. © 2023 The Authors