Normalizing temperature influence on the microstructure characteristics, mechanical and wear performance of a novel high chromium cast iron

The microstructure, mechanical and wear behavior of a high chromium cast iron were studied at different normalizing temperatures (950 °C, 1000 °C, 1050 °C, 1100 °C). The martensite content was proportional to the normalizing temperature except at 1100 °C because of the appearance of retained austenite. As the temperature increased, the primary carbide downsized whereas the secondary carbide content first increased but then decreased, contributing to the superior mechanical properties observed tempered at 1050 °C. The superior hardness and strength improved the surface deformation resistance, including enhanced work-hardening in the matrix and stacking fault locks in carbides, hindering dislocation slipping and material spalling, thus achieving excellent wear properties when normalized at 1050 °C. Moreover, the wear mechanism changed from oxidative/fatigue to abrasive/adhesive wear as the temperature increased.