The effects of steam treatment on the wear resistance of sintered iron and Fe-Cu alloys

Abstract

Specimens prepared from atomized iron powder and from pre-alloyed iron base powders containing 2, 4, 6 and 8 wt.% Cu, compacted to a density of 6.8 Mg m −3 and sintered for l h at 1120 °C were subjected to steam oxidation at 525 °C. The resistance of the treated specimens to abrasive wear was examined as a function of sliding distance and under various loads. The wear properties of sintered iron were improved by steam treatment and by the addition of copper in amounts up to 8 wt.%. However, steam treatment of sintered Fe-Cu alloys had adverse effects on wear resistance. An increase in hardness was associated with an increase in wear resistance.