Effect of Alloying Elements on Mechanical Properties of Low Alloy Wear Resistant Cast Steel
Chromium is an important addition for obtaining wear resistance in cast steels. It is added in the form of carbides which increase the hardness and strength of the steel, as well as increasing its abrasion resistance. As chromium concentration increases, hardness, yield strength, and tensile strength all increase, while the ductility decreases.
Nickel is another important alloying element used in wear resistant cast steels. Nickel increases the hardness, strength, and toughness of the steel, as well as improving its wear resistance. As the nickel content increases, so do the strength and hardness, but the ductility decreases.
Molybdenum can be added to wear resistant cast steels to enhance the wear resistance and toughness of the steel. It also increases the hardenability of the steel, making it easier to harden and temper. As the molybdenum content increases, so does strength, hardness, and wear resistance.
Vanadium is an uncommon alloying element used in wear resistant cast steels. It increases the hardness and abrasion resistance of the steel, as well as improving its strength and fatigue strength. As vanadium content increases, the strength, hardness, and wear resistance increase; however, the corrosion resistance is reduced.
Tungsten is a rare alloying element often used in low alloy wear resistant cast steel. It increases the strength of the steel, as well as the abrasion resistance and optimal surface hardness. As the tungsten content increases, the strength and hardness increase, but the ductility decreases.
The effects of these five alloying elements on the mechanical properties of low alloy wear resistant cast steel is illustrated in the diagram below. (Image)
From this graph, it is clear that while all of the alloying elements have a beneficial effect on the strength and hardness of the steel, they all have a negative effect on its ductility, with ductility decreasing as alloy content increases. It is important, therefore, that the alloy content is carefully controlled to ensure adequate ductility and wear resistance.
In conclusion, the addition of alloying elements to wear resistant cast steels can greatly improve its mechanical properties. Chromium, nickel, molybdenum, vanadium, and tungsten all serve to increase the hardness, strength, and wear resistance of the steel, though their effects can come at the cost of decreased ductility. Consequently, it is essential to control the alloy content carefully to ensure that both strength and ductility can be achieved.
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