Laser Surface Hardening of Advanced High-Strength Steel Grade 980

Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS) grade 980 is essential in industries demanding superior mechanical performance, such as automotive and aerospace engineering. This study investigates the laser surface hardening (LSH) process as a method to enhance surface properties, emphasizing the influence of varying laser power levels on microstructural and mechanical outcomes. Key microstructural zones, i.e. melting zone (MZ), hardening zone (HZ), and heat-affected zone (HAZ), were analyzed, and each contributes distinctively to the improved surface characteristics. The findings demonstrated significant enhancements in surface hardness, achieving peak values of 591 HV under optimized conditions. Additionally, the process enabled precise control over microstructural refinement and the depth of hardening. These results underscore LSH as an effective and adaptable technique for optimizing AHSS 980, providing enhanced wear resistance and long-term durability for high-performance applications.