Kondex Laser Cladding Revolutionizes HDD
HDD drillers using Kondex Drill DefenderTM products capture greater drilling distances, longer product use, and more overall profits. The difference is our patented laser cladding technology that outlasts and outperforms alternative wear protection.
What is Laser Cladding?
Laser cladding is an additive wear protection that uses a laser to create a melt pool in the base material and then deposits a tungsten carbide-dense matrix that metallurgically bonds to the part. Laser cladding provides superior wear prevention without adversely altering the base material. Its precision application enables pinpoint accuracy and placement in areas that can’t be protected with alternative wear coatings.
How Does Laser Cladding Differ from Hard Facing?
On the surface, laser cladding appears less aggressive than hard facing; however, its higher concentration of tungsten carbide makes it extremely durable. While hard facing has larger carbide bits, its large percentage of filler agent leads to quick erosion and carbide washout. Laser cladding, with its high density of carbides, has a larger total volume of wear protection that is difficult to wear through. It isn’t indestructible, but it will always outlast hard facing.
Other differences are visible under microscopic examination; however, the effects are clear on the jobsite. The process of hard facing creates large heat-affected zones, whereas Kondex laser cladding leaves no heat-affected zone. This is noteworthy, as these heat alterations compromise the integrity of the part by causing inconsistent hardness values. It can lead to cracks and breaks – a risk drillers don’t want to take. Voids are another difference seen under the microscope. These empty cavities are evident with hard facing and non-existent in laser cladding. Voids in wear protection are one reason for premature wear and frequent part replacement.
What are Drillers Saying about Kondex HDD Tooling?
Kondex has received a lot of praise from drillers using our tooling. Many drillers see 5-10 times longer life with our products over competitors, which means they’re replacing their tooling 5-10 times less often! The savings this generates add up quickly and can be the difference between a profitable job and taking a loss.
Where Can I Learn More?
Visit our website to learn more about Kondex and its laser cladding services: https://www.kondex.com/
Hear driller comments on our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/KondexYouTube
Visit our online store: https://kondexparts.com/hdd/
Call Kevin, Kondex HDD Sales Manager, to discuss your drilling needs: 920-238-2915
See Kondex at the following tradeshows:
No-Dig Show, 3/30/25 to 4/2/25 in Denver, CO, Booth 529
Utility Expo, 10/7/25 to 10/9/25 in Louisville, KY, Booth N5453
