Numerical and Metallographic Analysis of Laser Cladding of 316L, Stainless Steel

Abstract. This study presents research on the laser cladding process of stainless steel grade 316L. This widely used austenitic stainless steel exhibits good corrosion resistance and mechanical properties [1,2]. Maintaining these properties after welding or cladding requires precise control of heat input and the selection of appropriate process parameters. By applying an advanced cladding technique such as laser metal deposition (LMD), these effects can be achieved. However, accurate parameter selection is particularly important; therefore, a finite element method (FEM) analysis was employed to determine the optimal process conditions. Based on the thermal simulation, parameters were estimated to ensure complete melting of the deposited material while minimizing heat input to the base metal [3]. The derived parameters were then used to perform experimental cladding, resulting in a multilayer surface coating. The cladded material was examined using metallographic analysis. A comparison of the numerical results with the metallographic observations showed good agreement, confirming the effectiveness of FEM analysis for predicting suitable laser process parameters.