Development of a Protective Coating for Evaluating the Sub-surface Microstructure of a Worn Material

Abstract In the current study, electrolytic deposition using two different electrodes, copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni) was investigated with aim of protecting worn surface during mechanical sectioning polishing, for a posterior examination sub-surface microstructure. The efficacies coatings were visually assessed based on its adhesivity ability to protect wear tracks an as-cast 26% Cr high chromium cast iron (HCCI) alloy. It observed that electrodeposition Cu as electrode ineffective owing poor coating HCCI surface. had peeled off at several regions across cross-section sectioning. On other hand, Ni electroplating strike electrolyte successfully able track, characteristics track could be clearly visualized. A uniform thickness about 8 µm deposited after 30–40 min density maintained between 1 5 A/dm 2 . presence also acted protective barrier preventing ejection broken carbide fragments underneath track.