Microstructure of the Fe-based alloy hardfacing coating reinforced by TiC-VC particles was investigated by means of SEM, TEM, XRD and EPMA. The thermodynamics and effect of elements on the carbides were discussed. The result shows that TiC-VC carbides can be formed during arc welding. Carbides with particle size of 2-4 μm are uniformly dispersed in the matrix. Evidently the covering components and their amount affect the microstructure and hardness of the coatings. An excellent microstructure and hardness of hardfacing coating were obtained, while the amount of graphite, FeTi and FeV was controlled within the range of 8%-10%, 15%-18% and 8%-12%, respectively.
