Analysis of Fragmentation Phenomenon of Composite Layers of Fe-TiC Type Obtained “in situ” in Steel Casting

A method for fabrication of a composite layer on the surface of a steel casting using coating containing TiC substrates was presented. The reaction of the synthesis of the ceramic phase was based on the SHS method (Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis) and was triggered by the heat of molten steel. High hardness titanium carbide ceramic phases were obtained, which strengthened the base material improving its performance properties presented in this article. Microstructural examinations carried out by light microscopy (LM) on the in-situ produced composite layers showed that the layers were the products of reaction of the TiC synthesis – the phenomenon called “fragmentation” by the authors of study. The examinations carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have revealed the presence of spheroidal precipitated and free of impurities. The presence of titanium carbide was twofold increase in hardness in the area of the composite layer as compared to the base alloy which was carbon cast steel.