Breaking New Ground with Metal-Cored Wires for Laser Processes

The laser process is a well-known and highly versatile technology, particularly recognised for its application with powder feedstock. However, in recent years, wire-based solutions have gained significant attention due to their numerous advantages over traditional powder techniques. Metal-cored wires for laser processes offer improved efficiency, reduced material waste, and easier handling. Unlike powder, wire eliminates concerns related to dust and spatter, ensuring a cleaner and safer working environment. Furthermore, wires allow for 100% material recovery, resulting in a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for industries seeking high-quality cladding and hardfacing results.

Innovative Cored Wires for Laser and Wear Protection

Developing cored wires for laser processes requires precision to ensure smooth feeding, prevent optics contamination, and deliver consistent performance. Our specially engineered wires meet these challenges. As experts in wear protection, these wires also provide enhanced wear resistance to extend the lifespan of critical components and reduce costs. The new range includes wires offering advanced welding deposits such as chromium carbides, boron carbides and borides, tungsten carbides in a nickel matrix, and cobalt based alloys. Designed to combat abrasion, impact, high temperatures, and metal-to-metal wear, these wires ensure reliability across various applications, offering long-lasting results.

A Success Story: STELLOY 21-LD for Precision Cladding in Oil & Gas

One standout example of one of our wires in action is the successful use of STELLOY 21-LD (Laser Deposit) to clad an entire ball valve for the oil and gas industry. The valve required advanced wear protection to withstand extreme operational conditions, and our cobalt-based alloy proved to be the ideal solution. Using STELLOY 21-LD, the process achieved unmatched cladding quality and precision of the valve, with 100% material recovery contributing to reduced total cost of ownership (TCO).

This notable project was completed using Meltio’s robotic cell equipped with their coaxial laser head, which ensured optimal control and quality throughout the cladding process. The result was a perfectly coated ball valve, providing improved wear resistance and prolonged service life.