Laser Nd:YAG Surface Hardening to Improve the Durability of Steel Components

Huan Thanh Nguyen

doi:10.48084/etasr.14455

Authors

Huan Thanh Nguyen University of Economics–Technology for Industries, Hanoi, Vietnam

Volume: 15 | Issue: 6 | Pages: 29625-29631 | December 2025 | https://doi.org/10.48084/etasr.14455

Received: 1 September 2025 | Revised: 16 September 2025 | Accepted: 27 September 2025 | Online: 8 December 2025

Corresponding author: Huan Thanh Nguyen

Abstract

Improving the surface hardness of parts made from metal materials is a crucial factor in enhancing the durability and lifespan of products. Surface hardening is a heat treatment method that uses various heat sources (oxy-acetylene, plasma, high-frequency induction, laser, etc.) to heat the surface of the part to the phase transformation temperature, followed by rapid cooling to create a hard, wear-resistant surface layer. This study investigates the effect of key technological parameters, including laser power, laser spot diameter on the workpiece surface, and laser head movement speed, on the surface hardness of parts during the laser hardening process of 9XC steel using an ND: YAG laser. The findings show that the laser spot diameter has the most significant impact on the surface hardness of the workpiece (42.8%), followed by laser power (31.4%) and laser head speed (25.4%). These insights enable the selection of suitable technological parameters to enhance product quality, increase machining productivity, reduce production costs, and meet the surface hardness requirements of various components.

Keywords:

component, surface hardening, laser heat treatment, technological parameters

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