The dependence of the electron beam remelting parameters on the surface residual stress and hardness of NbSi₂ coatings on niobium alloys

NbSi₂ coatings were prepared on niobium alloy surface by a fused slurry method. Electron beam remelting process is explored to modify the morphology and the phase composition of the coated layer. After electron beam treatment, the amount of porosity and cracks of the coatings are reduced, and the grain is finer. With accelerating voltage of the electron beam increasing, Nb₅Si₃ phase can be detected in the NbSi2 coatings. The results of residual stress and surface hardness provide a good evidence to explain the microstructure evolution and surface modification of the coatings.