Purpose: In this paper, laser alloying with boron and solid lubricants was used in order to
produce the self-lubricating layer on 100CrMnSi6-4 bearing steel. The influence of CaF2
and BaF2 on microstructure, hardness, chemical and phase composition as well as wear
resistance of the layers was studied.
Design/methodology/approach: The two-step process was used during laser alloying.
First, the surface of the specimen was coated by a paste with alloying material. The alloying
material consisted of the mixture of amorphous boron and self-lubricating additions (CaF2
and BaF2). Next, the surface was re-melted by a laser beam using TRUMPF TLF 2600
Turbo CO2 laser. The laser beam power 1.43 kW was used for laser alloying. The layer was
characterized using X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive
Spectroscopy, microhardness tester. The dry sliding wear behaviour of the layer was
investigated using the Amsler type wear test.
Findings: The tribofilm, consisting of solid lubricants, was observed on the worn surfaces
of laser-alloyed layers. It caused an increase in the wear resistance at room temperature.
The presence of calcium fluoride and barium fluoride was confirmed in laser-alloyed layers
using XRD and X-ray microanalysis by EDS method.
Practical implications: Laser surface modification with solid lubricants had the important
cognitive significance and gives grounds to the practical employment of this technology for
reducing the abrasive wear.
Originality/value: The wear mechanism of surface layer with solid lubricants was
determined. The produced layer with laser alloying layers of boron and solid lubricant (CaF2
or BaF2) was compared.