Objective To apply surface technology to the remanufacture of primary fan blades of boiler to greatly improve the blades’ surface properties and prolong the service life. Methods Based on the analysis of the failure mechanisms of primary fan blades, main remanufacturing processes of primary fan blades were developed. Four kinds of particle reinforced metal matrix composited (MMC) coatings were deposited by high velocity arc spraying (HARC). Erosion properties of coatings were studied by dry sand erosion test, followed by porosity, microhardness and microstructure tests of K99A and K99B coatings which exhibited better erosion resistance. Results At the erosion angle of 30° and 90°, the erosion rate of K99A and K99B coatings was smaller than that of the other two coatings. The porosity of K99A and K99B coatings were (2.99±0.38)% and (4.30±0.41)%, and the microhardness of them were (1110±190)HV0.2 and (1160±206)HV0.2. By comprehensive comparison, K99A coating exhibited better erosion wear resistance. And the adhesive strength of K99A coating was greater than 42.3 MPa that met the requirements of wear-resistant coatings. Conclusion Argon arc welding is used to repair primary fan blades, which can not only restore their shape and size but also make their strength and toughness meet the service requirements of blades. The K99A coating deposited by HARC possesses the excellent erosion resistance, 20% better compared with the other. the remanufacturing cost of primary fan blades is far lower than that of the new ones, and the wear resistance of the blades after remanufacturing is improved with great economic benefits.