Structure and property correlation of plasma source ion implanted layers in Monel K‐500 alloy

Abstract

Monel series of nickel base alloys (Ni–Cu type) are attractive for components like bearings and shafts operating in high magnetizing environments because of their nonmagnetic characteristic coupled with superior corrosion and oxidation resistance at extreme service temperatures. Unfortunately, the current bearing technology is based on the use of two classes of materials, 5000 series alloy steels and 400 series stainless steels, both of which are magnetic. Thus, the successful operation of a magnetic device requires a new class of bearing materials. Some of the nonferrous materials, such as monels, have not demonstrated superior wear characteristics as bearing materials. Plasma source ion implantation (PSII), a non‐line‐of‐sight technology for implanting preferably gaseous species, is a new and innovative approach to surface modification of materials. Recently, it was reported that nitrogen implantation of the solution annealed and age hardened Monel K‐500 alloy by the PSII process resulted in a significa...