Microstructures and properties of wire and arc additively manufactured steel matrix composites with addition of WC by gravity-driven side powder feeding

Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), which exhibits high deposition rate low production cost, is a promising method for fabricating large-sized composite components. In this work, the WAAM process applied to fabricate steel matrix components by introducing WC/Fe powder into molten pool through gravity-driven side feeding. The effects of WC fraction on microstructure, mechanical properties wear resistance deposited have been investigated. results reveal that particles are completely dissolved specimen with 20 wt% powder, resulting in fine bainite microstructure W element. For specimens above wt%, different structures (Fe,W)6C phase, including discontinue continue networks, fishbone type, flocculent particles, formed due intensive reaction between matrix. latter two more likely appear fraction. quasi-cleavage fracture during tensile test, while brittle observed Tests prove improved addition WC. maximum strength, microhardness minimum loss obtained fractions 40 100 80 respectively. can be attributed synergistic solution strengthening, precipitation strengthening second retained blocks fine-grain strengthening.