Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM
In many cases, the surface of a component is critical to operational behavior and can be modified in various ways. A new technique, laser re-melting of surface layers, finely polishes or adds structure to a surface. The mechanical properties in the surface layers are modified by adjusting the laser parameters. The effect of process parameters on residual stresses, hardness and carbon content was investigated thoroughly. The correct selection of process parameters can, for instance, create intentional compressive stress in the surface by increasing the hardness of the layer. This is particularly useful for tribological loads.