Effect of Si on the mechanical properties of Inconel 625 laser cladding layer

Inconel 625 + x wt.% Si (x = 0, 1, 3) laser cladding layers were prepared using high speed laser cladding to investigate the effect of Si on the mechanical properties of Inconel 625 cladding layer. Characterization of the microstructure and phase composition of the cladding layer, as well as microhardness testing, compression testing, and tensile testing were carried out. The results show that Si produce significant solid solution strengthening and second phase strengthening, which enhance the strength of Inconel 625 cladding layer. On the other hand, the addition of Si lead to elemental segregation and cracking, resulting in plasticity reduction of Inconel 625 cladding layer.