Dry sliding wear investigation on tungsten carbide particles reinforced iron matrix composites

WC particles reinforced Fe-based metal matrix composites were synthesized by powder metallurgy process. The microstructure and composition of the specimens were analyzed and the wear-resistant properties against WC and alumina balls were comparatively investigated by SEM/EDS analyses. The wear rates of specimens were evaluated by optical profilometry. Microstructure exhibited austenite Fe-FCC dendrites, eutectic (iron austenite + carbides) and primary carbides. Two wear mechanisms have been identified from SEM as main mechanisms during dry sliding wear of Tungsten carbides reinforced iron matrix, namely oxidation and abrasion. The overall wear performance, which is obtained by considering the wear loss of the substrates, indicated less resistance against Alumina compared to WC ball contact.