Abstract

In the present work, surface alloying through microwave energy was explored as a processing method for
enhancement of surface properties of high-speed tool steel. The experiments carried out using 900 W multimode
microwave applicator. The average thickness of 20 μm WC-Ni clad was developed on M2 high-speed steel tool
insert having good bonding between substrate and powder. Microwave cladding process is one of the potential
cladding techniques to enhance surface properties of a target material. The experimental trials were conducted in
a domestic microwave oven with the help of Al2O3 shield (specimen enclosures) to avoid direct exposure of metals
to microwave with metals. The developed clads were characterized through scanning electron microscope, energy
dispersive X-ray spectrometer, X-ray diffraction tests, to determine the microstructure, and elemental composition
of the developed surface. Surface roughness is checked and is found that feed rate and surface roughness is
proportional. The minimum surface roughness can be obtained with the combination of input parameters cutting
speed (50 m/min), feed rate (0.08 mm/rev), and depth of cut (0.3 mm).