Controlled graphitization as a potential option for improving wear resistance of unalloyed white irons

Abstract

Effect of heat treatment on the microstructure and resistance to abrasive wear has been studied in an unalloyed white iron used for manufacturing cylindrical pebbles used as grinding media by the cement and other industries. Heat treatment comprised holding at 800 °C, 850 °C, 900 °C, and 950 °C for 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 minutes followed by oil quenching. Heat treatment in general improved the wear resistance over that in the as-cast (as-received) state. The extent of maximum improvement differed with temperature and in the decreasing order occurred at (1) 180 minutes, 800 °C, OQ; (2) 30 minutes, 950 °C, OQ; (3) 90 minutes, 900 °C, OQ; and (4) 180 minutes, 850 °C, OQ. From the point of view of commercial application, the heat treatment at (2) is most favored. Microstructural changes occurring during heat treating comprised (1) changes in matrix microstructure; (2) a reduction in volume fraction of massive carbides due to its part graphitization/destabilization; and (3) changes in graphite morphology, size, and distribution. Amongst the aforesaid changes, graphitization has emerged as the key parameter in improving wear resistance. Graphite morphology in a near-nodular form of optimum size and distribution was found to be most effective. Upon increasing the heat-treating temperature, the tendency of nodules to develop spikes increased. Similarly, interlinking of graphite flakes was also observed. These features and the possible formation of free ferrite adversely affected wear resistance. The role of other beneficial changes in the microstructure, e.g., globularization of carbides, possible retention of austenite, and formation of optimum volume fraction of martensite, have been duly considered while optimizing microstructure(s). The key feature of the present study is that, despite its fundamental significance, it has a well-focused application potential.