Surface Modification Features of Tool Steels by Laser Radiation

In this paper, we present the study results of the surface layers of carbon steels U8 and U10 performed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy after laser exposure. The thicknesses of oxidized surface layers were determined to be 43 nm and 108 nm for U8 and U10 steels, respectively. Both the total thickness of the formed oxide film and its phase composition (FeO, Fe2O3, Fe3O4) with depth were found to change depending on the concentration of iron, oxygen, and carbon atoms in the considered steels. The “layer” structure effect of the oxides of the layer modified by laser irradiation on the frictional characteristics of steels is shown. In particular, the presence of FeO oxide on the U8 steel surface increases the wear characteristics, while the presence of Fe2O3 and Fe3O4 oxides provides a higher wear resistance of steel U10 compared to an unirradiated steel surface.