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Abstract
The plasma powder transferred arc welding process which uses feed stock in a powder form has similarities with plasma wire transferred arc welding. This paper describes a comparative study of the two processes using a cobalt-based alloy commercially known as stellite 6. This Co-based alloy is recognized for its superior cavitation erosion resistance. The aim of this paper is to investigate the potential of plasma transferred arc coatings for the protection and refurbishment of hydraulic turbine blades. Coatings were evaluated for the influence of plasma gas flow rate on coating dilution, geometry, hardness and microstructure. Coatings processed with the atomized stellite 6 powder feedstock showed a superior surface quality, lower dilution, better wettability and wider tracks. This study provided new information about the refurbishing of worn hydraulic turbine blades, leading to a longer service working life.