Microstructure, Hardness and Wear Resistance of Local TiC-ZrO2/FeCr Reinforcement Fabricated in Situ in Steel Castings

Wear resistance of TiC-ZrO₂-Fe locally reinforced steel casting has been investigated. Composites were obtained by introducing to mould cavity compact with TiC reaction substrates, ZrO₂ particles and addition of moderator. Casting with local reinforcement – composite zone was obtained. Structure and microstructure of composite zone were investigated with use of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) methods. The Miller slurry machine and Ball-on-Disc tester were used to determine wear resistance of the fabricated locally reinforced TiC-ZrO₂-Fe composites. The worn surface of specimens after test, was studied by SEM. Due to the presence of TiC and ZrO₂ particles in composite zone steel castings exhibited higher abrasion resistance than chromium white cast iron with Ni addition Ni-Hard 1 type and comparable with composites with high TiC content.