Abrasive wear behaviour of 27MnB5 steel used in agricultural tines

Abstract

Understanding the wear mechanisms in wear parts is a crucial element of tribological investigation, particularly in agricultural applications where the knowledge about abrasive micro-mechanisms of soil engaging tools are limited. In the current research, symmetrical skew wedge cultivator tines of 27MnB5 steel were wear tested to investigate the change in mass, linear dimensions, hardness and microstructure, aiming at prolonging the lifetime of these parts through design and material. The wear mechanisms were identified and characterized by non-contact 3D optical profilometry. Test results clearly shows a zone specific wear micro-mechanism based on the tine geometry. The cutting edge of the tine can be segmented into micro-cutting and micro-ploughing zone. Vickers hardness and microstructural analysis were performed on the cross-section of the sliding interface. Tribo-layer was observed on the worn surface. Degree of penetration from the wear scratches was calculated to justify the wear micro-mechanisms. A Discrete Element Method (DEM) model was developed to investigate the soil flow during the tillage process. The model results and field test wear scars are in good agreement with each other with respect to the wear patterns.