Abstract:Laser cladding is widely employed for surface strengthening of titanium alloys and other metals owing to its advantageous metallurgical bonding and narrow heat-affected zones. Among various strengthening materials, WC is utilized as a superhard ceramic phase. Through its synergistic effect with Co, the hardness and wear resistance of the clad layer can be effectively enhanced. However, research has demonstrated that laser power exerts a significant influence on clad layer quality. When excessive power is applied, excessive dissolution of WC particles occurs, facilitating crack initiation and pore formation. Conversely, insufficient power commonly leads to defects such as unmelted particles and porosity.This review focuses on the influence of laser power on WC grain size and growth mechanisms within the coating, summarizing the coating"s wear resistance mechanisms. Furthermore, the main limitations currently encountered in the preparation of WC-Co coatings are analyzed, along with corresponding improvement strategies. Finally, existing challenges and future development trends are discussed.