Effect of chill formation on the mechanical properties and microstructure of grey and nodular cast irons used in automotive industry

Cam shafts used in automobiles are produced by cast iron (grey cast iron, nodular cast iron) or steel. In this study, effect of chill formation on the surface of grey and nodular cast irons is investigated on the wear behavior, hardness, impact toughness and microstructure of grey and nodular cast irons. For this purpose, four types cam shaft made of grey cast iron with and without chill on the surfaces and nodular cast iron with and without chill on the surfaces, were casted. Mechanical tests were conducted after the camshafts have been produced by casting method. Surface hardness and wear resistance of grey and nodular cast irons have been improved by chill formation on the surfaces and it is concluded that the amount of wear on the surfaces of grey cast iron with chill and nodular cast iron with chill is almost the same. Maximum hardness value was obtained on the surface of grey cast iron with chill. The impact toughness has been found to decrease by chill formation. Maximum impact toughness value was obtained on nodular cast iron. Microstructures of grey cast iron with and without chill and nodular cast iron with and without chill were examined under optical microscope and worn surfaces of cast irons were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Wear mechanisms of the four types of cast iron were evaluated by SEM examination.