Microstructure and abrasive wear behaviour of iron base hardfacing

The influence of the composition and heat treatment of overlays on the abrasive wear resistance of iron base hardfacing alloy overlays is reported. Overlays were deposited using a shielded metal arc (SMA) welding process on structural steel using two commercial hardfacing electrodes, i.e. Fe - 6%Cr - 0(.)7%C (HI) and Fe - 32%Cr - 4(.)5%C (H-2). Abrasive wear resistance of overlays in as welded and heat treated conditions was tested using a pin on disc system against a 300 grade waterproof SiC polishing paper at different normal loads (1 - 4 N) and constant sliding speed 2(.)0 m s(-1). Optical microscopy was used to study the microstructure of overlays in as welded and heat treated conditions. SEM studies of wear surfaces were carried out to analyse wear mechanisms. It was found that the wear resistance of the high Cr - C coating is better than the low Cr - C hardfacing under identical conditions. Significant variation in hardness was noticed across the interface, indicating the effect of dilution. Hardness of the coating adjacent to the interface was found to be comparatively lower than the coating further, away from the interface. Post-weld heat treatment enhanced the abrasive wear resistance.