Effect of high temperature and sub-ambient treatments on the matrix structure and abrasion resistance of a high-chromium white iron

The influence of the matrix structure on the abrasion resistance of a high-chromium white iron has been examined. Various destabilisation and sub-ambient thermal treatments were used to generate different matrix structures in a Cr Mo 15 3 white iron alloy. The maximum abrasion resistance when abraded against garnet was found in the structure destabilised at 1100°C, then cooled to temperatures below -95°C. The matrix structure for this treatment contained approximately 30% retained austenite and a relatively high carbon content. Since alumina is much harder than the matrix microstructural constituents, the abrasion resistance when abraded against alumina was relatively insensitive to the matrix structure.