Patent ID: 6229111
Filing Date: 2001-05-08
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
A method for laser/plasma surface modification comprising:a. applying a precursor layer comprising a binder and a ceramic or metallic powder to the surface of a metal substrate;b. irradiating the surface of the substrate with a laser beam having a rectangular/oval cross sectional area defined by two straight parallel sides separated by a distance defined as the beam width and comprising two opposing curved edges connecting the parallel sides, wherein the distance between opposing curved edges along an axis which bisects the beam width is the beam length, said irradiation taking place at a sufficient energy level and for a sufficient time to melt a portion of said substrate such that it forms an alloy with said precursor;c. directing an uncollimated plasma arc to the surface of the substrate at a position such that the distance between an axis which bisects the laser beam in the length dimension and a parallel axis which bisects the plasma arc is defined as .DELTA.x and the ratio of .DELTA.x/beam length is less than or equal to 0.156 and wherein the distance between an axis which bisects the laser beam in the width dimension and a parallel axis which bisects the plasma arc is defined as .DELTA.y and the ratio of .DELTA.y/beam width is less than or equal to 4.28, and wherein said directing occurs at the same time as the irradiating with the laser beam; andd. moving said substrate relative to said laser beam and said plasma arc along a translation axis in a direction such that the substrate will be irradiated first by the plasma arc and then be irradiated by the laser beam.