The interface properties of multi-layered functionally graded Cr3C2-NiCr coatings deposited by plasma spraying technique were experimentally studied in this paper. The microstructure and phase structure of coatings were studied with scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The thermal shock resistance was investigated by cyclic heating and cooling tests using an electro-calefaction furnace. The crack appearances of the coatings were observed carefully. Results show that the plasma sprayed multi-layered functionally graded coatings are compact and the adhesion between the layers and the substrate is good. The coatings have better macro-hardness than the substrate, and the 6-layers coating has the highest macro-hardness and the best wear resistance. Besides, the micro-hardness of coatings increases with increasing content of Cr2C3 in coating materials. Results of cyclic thermal shock show that the main failure styles of the coatings are crack and desquamation and the thermal shock resistance of the coatings is improved obviously by increasing the number of coating layers.
Thermal shock resistance of functionally graded materials with mixed-mode cracks