Interplay between the microstructure and tribological performance of a destabilized 26 wt% Cr HCCI: The influence of temperature and heating rate

• Published in: Tribology international Vol. 185; p. 108532
• Main Authors: Nayak, U. Pranav, Mücklich, Frank, Guitar, María Agustina
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.07.2023
• Subjects: Destabilization heating rate; High chromium cast iron; Matrix transformation and secondary carbide precipitation; Wear rate; Destabilization heating rate; Matrix transformation and secondary carbide precipitation; High chromium cast iron; Wear rate
• ISSN: 0301-679X; 1879-2464
• DOI: 10.1016/j.triboint.2023.108532

This study analysed the microstructural evolution and tribological performance of a 26 wt% Cr HCCI alloy under varying heating rates (HR) and destabilization temperatures. Results showed that faster heating resulted in the formation of secondary carbides (SC) mainly at the periphery of the matrix, whereas slower heating led to carbides forming inside the matrix as well. The volume fraction and size of SC increased as HR decreased, with HR having a greater influence on their characteristics than temperature increase. All samples displayed abrasive and oxidative wear, with the lowest wear resistance at 800 °C and the highest at 980 °C. Interestingly, higher matrix hardness did not always correspond to increased wear resistance, highlighting the criticality of matrix support in improving tribological performance. •Faster heating → SC formed at periphery; slower heating → carbides formed inside matrix too.•Heating rate had a major influence on SC stereology than temperature increase.•EBSD showed ferrite islands in 800 °C samples, which reduced wear resistance.•Higher matrix hardness in slower heated samples did not increase wear resistance.