Microcracks Reduction in Laser Hardened Layers of Ductile Iron

A study of surface hardening Ductile Iron (DI) with and without austempering heat treatment was developed. The chemical composition the material contains alloying elements such as Cu Ni, that allow to obtain a Grade 120-90-02, based on ASTM A536, which treated be transformed Austempered (ADI). Specimens 10 × 5 mm3 were obtained for application by Nd:YAG UR laser 150 W maximum power. parameters used advance speed 0.2 0.3 mm/s power at 105, 120, 135 144 W; departure microstructures fully pearlitic in samples treatment, ausferrite austempered samples. Microstructural characterization hardened performed analyzed martensite undissolved carbides identified samples, while it found finer carbides. depth different conditions their respective microhardness measured. results indicate via is suitable method improving wear resistance means hardness increment critical areas compromising core ductility DI components, but enhanced when before hardening, reduction microcracks.