Development of Hardfacing Alloys for Power Generation Applications

Development of wear-resistant hardfacing materials using powder metallurgy/hot isostatic pressing technology offers an alternative to today's cobalt-based materials and those that suffer delamination damage. Ongoing research and development at the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), detailed in this article, examines the application of wear-resistant hardfacing materials using the PM/HIP process. The hope is to eliminate weldability and residual stress challenges associated with some hardfacing alloys, as well as to provide a wider range of potential alloy solutions to reduce cobalt use and to address delamination issues with incumbent materials.