Laser Re-Melting Assisted with Induction Heating of Yttria Partially Stabilized Zirconia Thermal Barrier Coatings

This study investigates the effects of laser remelting on plasma sprayed YSZ thermal barrier coatings using a pulsed laser with and without induction preheating. It is shown that induction preheating decreases the laser threshold energy required for full remelting, which effectively reduces crack density. Induction preheating also helps in developing a steadier melt temperature and in decreasing thermal gradients between successive remelting passes. XRD analysis shows that it can reduce the amount of monoclinic phase as well.