Hard facing of 316L(N) Stainless Steel- Deposition Processes, Industrial Applications, and High-Temperature Fatigue Analysis

Atomic Reactors and High temperature pressure vessels need 315L(N) grade stainless steel Hardfacing of 316L(N) stainless steel (SS) is a critical surface engineering process, primarily used to enhance the tribological performance (wear and galling resistance) of structural components, such as those in fast breeder reactors, without compromising their excellent corrosion resistance and high-temperature strength. Nickel-based alloys, specifically Ni-Cr-B-Si (Colmonoy), are favored for this purpose, providing high hardness and improved performance at elevated temperatures compared to Cobalt-based alloys. Hardfacing increases the hardness of the specimen. Though the increase in hardness is preferred for the specimens, it can also lead to cracking/debonding if there is a sudden rise in the hardness immediately after the interface in the cladding region. To assess this structural integrity, high cycle fatigue (HCF) tests are required to be carried out on the hardfaced specimens. Dr Amruta is working on this challenging Task and needs industry support to make her dream a reality.