In-situ production of (Fe,Cr)7C3 particulate bundles reinforced iron matrix composites

In-situ production of (Fe,Cr)(7)C-3 particulate bundles -reinforced iron matrix composite was prepared by infiltration casting between Cr wires and white cast iron at 1200 degrees C plus subsequent heat treatment. The composites under different heat treatment times were comparatively characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and pin-on-disc wear resistance tests. The results show that the area of the particle bundles gradually increases with the heat treatment time increasing, and the chemical compositions change from eutectic to hypoeutectic, the morphologies of the reinforcements present chrysanthemum-shaped, granular and intercrystalline eutectics. Under 5 N loads, the composites appear excellent wear resistance, which is 36 times for the reference sample.