Multivariable Modeling of Impact-Abrasion Wear Rates in Metal Matrix-Carbide Composite Materials

Carbide-matrix hardfacings reinforced with spherical and angular particles of different size and density have been investigated about correlation of their specific material parameters—especially matrix hardness and microstructure parameters—with the wear rates in continuous impact abrasion test (CIAT). For this study, 12 different hardfacings have been characterized by the quantitative metallographic method for determination of specific structural parameters, such as the mean carbide diameter, carbide area fraction, and a distribution parameter of inter-particle distances (LIPD). Results showed the high influence of the matrix hardness on the CIAT wear resistance followed by effect of the mean particle size. The length of inter-particle distance (LIPD) has exhibited stronger additional effect on CIAT wear rate than carbide area fraction, whereas particle form (spherical or angular) showed no significant differences.