Abstract
The atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis is a process that involves the detailed analyses of the
surface of a three dimensional sample piece. A good image is always generated on such a sample once
the settings are implemented correctly. And as such, the amplitude set point played a vital role in
achieving a better image. For surface engineering applications, a small proportion of Cu has been
added to Ti6Al4V alloy and deposited using a 2kW Ytterbium Fibre Laser. This paper presents the
evolving microstructures and the surface topographies of the laser deposited Ti6Al4V/Cu alloys. The
formation and the output of the microstructure depend on the laser processing parameters employed.
The α-Ti lamella formed was observed to gain coarseness with respect to the increase in the laser
power. The migration of the β-phase has been impeded during solidification due to the low strain
hardening effect posed by the α-Ti lamella thereby limiting the further dislocation of the β-phase within
the crystal structure. A clear picture of the height, amplitude and the phase shift of the scanned sample
were viewed before a capture can be made. A correlation between wear loss and surface roughness has
been established among the laser deposited samples.