Structure and properties of chromium-containing coatings produced by electron-beam facing in the atmosphere

The chemical and phase compositions and the structure of layers formed by electron-beam facing of low-carbon steel with mixtures of powdered chromium and chromium carbide in air are studied. The microhardness of the layers is determined over their thickness. The faced steels are tested for bending strength, corrosion resistance, and resistance to abrasive wear. A possible mechanism of formation of the properties of the coating, i.e., the hardness, the wear resistance, and the crack resistance, is considered.