What is laser cladding?

Are you dealing with frequent wear, corrosion, or high maintenance costs for critical components? Laser cladding provides a superior alternative to traditional coatings like nickel-chrome plating (NiCr) and HVOF spraying, offering better durability and protection. Laser cladding stands out as a cost-effective and technically superior solution compared to traditional coatings and is predominantly applied to enhance the performance and longevity of critical components such as piston rods, rollers, drums, mandrels, and propeller shafts. Whether they are new or in need of repair.

Laser cladding process

Laser cladding is an advanced manufacturing process that enhances the surface properties of components by applying a precise layer of material using a focused laser beam. At Topclad, we utilize high-energy lasers to melt and fuse powdered alloys onto substrates with unparalleled accuracy. This process ensures minimal heat input to the substrate, preserving its structural integrity and dimensional accuracy. The result is a durable, high-performance coating that enhances corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and overall component lifespan.

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Precisely controlled laser beam

The process of laser cladding begins with a precisely controlled laser beam directed onto the substrate’s surface. This focused laser beam generates a localized, high-energy density heat source that melts the powdered alloy material. The alloy material is carefully selected based on the application requirements, ensuring optimal properties such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and thermal stability.

Minimized heat transfer

One of the key advantages of laser cladding lies in its ability to minimize heat transfer to the substrate. By focusing the laser energy, only a small area undergoes thermal exposure, preventing substantial changes in the substrate’s physical properties. This precision ensures that the original shape and dimensions of the substrate are preserved, crucial for maintaining component integrity and functionality.

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Instant metallurgical bonding

Metallurgical bonding between the melted alloy and substrate occurs instantly as the molten material solidifies. This bond is characterized by its pore-free and crack-free nature, which significantly enhances the coating’s reliability and durability. The resultant surface exhibits superior properties compared to traditional coatings like nickel-chrome plating (NiCr) and high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) spraying, making laser cladding an indispensable choice for critical applications.

Technical, economic and environmental benefits

Laser cladding provides significant technical, economic, and environmental benefits for industrial applications. For a deeper understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of laser cladding, visit our dedicated page Advantages and Disadvantages of Laser Cladding.

Laser cladding – Types of technologies

Laser cladding types of techniques vary, each suited for specific applications and offering unique advantages. At Topclad, we focus on conventional and large spot/high power laser cladding, tailoring our processes to meet precise industrial needs.

Conventional laser cladding

This is the most commonly used technique, ideal for applying coatings to external surfaces to enhance wear and corrosion resistance. It utilizes a precise laser beam to melt the cladding material as it is fed into the substrate, ensuring minimal dilution and maximum process stability.

High power laser cladding

By increasing the laser spot size and power, this method covers larger areas more quickly, suitable for bigger components or where faster application is beneficial. It still maintains high quality and controlled heat input to protect the integrity of the substrate

High-speed laser cladding

Extremely High-Speed Laser Application (EHLA) is designed for fast application speeds, higher than conventional cladding. 

Internal bore laser cladding

This technique is specialized for cladding the internal surfaces of cylindrical components. It is particularly useful for parts like hydraulic cylinders or boreholes where internal wear and corrosion resistance are critical.

3D freeform laser cladding

Expanding beyond simple coatings, this method involves adding material in freeform to create or rebuild parts. It allows for the addition of features or complete parts from scratch, providing significant flexibility in manufacturing and repair processes

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14 Years of excellence in cladding solutions

At Topclad, we prioritize proven, reliable laser cladding techniques such as conventional and large spot methods, which align with our deep expertise and commitment to quality. With over 14 years of experience and more than 13,000 treated components, our mastery in these areas allows us to handle complex cladding requirements with exceptional control and precision. These selected methods ensure robust process control, crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of components exposed to severe operational conditions.

Speed vs. reliability in laser cladding

While Extremely High-Speed Laser Application (EHLA) offers potential for increasing production speed, our experience shows that the overall time savings within the total process are minimal. More critically, the high speeds associated with EHLA can compromise process stability, particularly for components like cylinder rods that may exhibit slight bends or imbalances. Given these challenges, EHLA’s vulnerability to process instability makes it less suitable for the stringent standards required in many of our applications. Therefore, we continue to focus on technologies that provide dependable and consistent results across all our projects.

Topclad’s unique process

Topclad specializes in advanced laser cladding technology, expertly tailored for surface treatment in critical conditions. Our state-of-the-art process and machines excel at precision machining of surface-sensitive components, meeting the most stringent industrial requirements for durability, performance, and cost-effectiveness.

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Precision tailored for critical applications

Our specialized equipment adeptly handles components of various sizes and complexities. From small, delicate parts to large components with diameters up to 2200 mm and lengths up to 24000 mm, our capability ensures precision and efficiency for every project. This is particularly crucial for applications where extreme accuracy is demanded under challenging conditions.

Technological leadership in surface treatment

We have developed proprietary laser clad layers, such as those superior to widely used materials like Inconel 625, distinguishing our offerings with enhanced corrosion resistance, ductility, and wear resistance. With over 14 years of experience, our technological expertise not only extends equipment lifespan and boosts performance but also significantly reduces operational costs for our clients.

Custom solutions for complex needs

Recognizing the uniqueness of each project, Topclad provides custom solutions specifically designed to improve wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability. Our laser cladding technology consistently delivers superior results compared to traditional methods like nickel-chrome plating (NiCr) and HVOF spraying. We also excel in applying both thick and exceptionally thin layers, adept at both new component treatment and repair/restoration work, ensuring that even the most critical applications receive the most effective surface treatment available.

Laser cladding applications

At Topclad, we excel in applying laser cladding technology to elevate the performance of critical components across industries:

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