Effects of alloy elements on mechanical properties of low alloy wear resistant steel

    
    The mechanical properties of low alloy wear resistant steel are largely determined by its chemical composition. The alloy elements such as chromium, vanadium, molybdenum, nickel, and silicon have an important influence on improving the mechanical properties of such steels. In addition to adding strength, these elements can also improve the resistance to wear and corrosion, as well as enhance the hardenability of the steel that allows the steel to traverse through the quenching and tempering process of heat treatment.
    
    Chromium
    
    The main function of chromium is to improve the high-temperature strength of the steel and to enhance the oxidation resistance of steel at temperatures above 600°C. Chromium can also form a hard, wear-resistant surface through the formation of a thin layer of chromium oxide. The influence of chromium on the steel is most obvious when the chromium content exceeds 11%, at which point the steel can be classified as stainless steel.
    
    Vanadium
    
    Vanadium is the most important element for improving strength and wear resistance in low alloy steels. When vanadium is added to the steel, its grains are refined, resulting in a more uniform grain structure and increased resistance to plastic deformation and wear. It also has a beneficial effect on weldability and increases hardenability, allowing the quench hardening of thinner parts.
    
    Molybdenum
    
    Molybdenum is the most important alloying element for the wear-resistant property of steel. Its role is not only to strengthen steel, but also to improve its oxidation resistance and anti-corrosion properties. It has a high affinity for sulfur and phosphorous and can make them difficult to dissolve, thus providing an effective mechanism for the forming of protective oxide film on the surface.
    
    Nickel
    
    Nickel increases the strength and impact resistance of steel. It also improves the hardenability of a steel matrix, allowing the alloyed steel to be quenched and tempered to produce higher hardness. Furthermore, nickel increases corrosion resistance, mainly by increasing the ability of the steel to resist stress corrosion cracking.
    
    Silicon
    
    Silicon helps to promote depth hardening of the heat-treated portions of the steel. It can also increase the rigidity and abrasion resistance of the steel, while decreasing the brittleness. Additionally, it also helps to promote grain refinement and improve weldability.
    
    Figure 1. Effects of Alloy Elements on Low Alloy Wear Resistant Steel
    
    Conclusion
    
    The mechanical properties of low alloy wear resistant steel are greatly affected by the addition of alloy elements. Chromium, vanadium, molybdenum, nickel, and silicon all have an important influence on the steel, contributing increased strength and wear and oxidation resistance. Furthermore, these alloy elements can also improve the hardenability, weldability, and abrasion resistance of the steel. With proper selection of alloy elements, low alloy wear resistant steel can be used for a variety of applications.

---