Effect of chemical elements on wear resistance of products.

As you know, the content of chemical elements will influence the performance of final products. Today, engineer from Raymond Machinery Co.,Ltd would like to share some information about chemical elements’ effect on wear resistance of products.

1. Carbon (C)
   1. In Steels: In steels, carbon is a crucial element that significantly affects wear resistance. Increasing the carbon content generally leads to an increase in hardness. For example, in plain carbon steels, as the carbon content rises from 0.2% to 0.8%, the hardness of the steel increases due to the formation of more carbide phases. These carbide particles, such as iron carbide (Fe₃C), act as hard particles that resist abrasion and wear. High – carbon steels are often used in applications where wear resistance is crucial, like cutting tools and springs.
   2. In Cast Irons: In cast irons, carbon can exist in different forms. Gray cast iron has a flake – like graphite structure, and the presence of graphite provides some lubricating effect, reducing friction and wear in certain applications such as in engine blocks. In contrast, white cast iron has a high proportion of cementite (Fe₃C), which gives it a very high hardness and excellent wear resistance. It’s used for applications like crusher hammers and grinding balls.
2. Chromium (Cr)
   1. In Stainless Steels: Chromium is a key element in stainless steels. It forms a passive oxide film on the surface of the material. When the chromium content is sufficient (usually at least 10.5% in stainless steels), this oxide film provides excellent corrosion resistance and also contributes to wear resistance. The oxide film acts as a barrier against abrasive particles and reduces the adhesion of other materials during wear processes. For example, in 316 stainless steel, the chromium content helps to maintain the integrity of the surface in corrosive and abrasive environments such as in marine applications.
   2. In Alloy Steels: In alloy steels, chromium forms chromium carbides (Cr₇C₃, Cr₂₃C₆), which are very hard and increase the wear resistance of the material. These carbides can resist abrasive wear and also provide some resistance to adhesive wear. For example, in high – speed steels used for cutting tools, chromium carbides help to improve the tool’s lifespan by reducing wear during machining operations.
3. Nickel (Ni)
   1. In Alloys: Nickel is often used in combination with other elements to improve wear resistance. In stainless steels, nickel enhances the toughness and ductility of the material. While its direct effect on wear resistance may not be as pronounced as carbon or chromium, it helps to maintain the integrity of the material during wear. For example, in austenitic stainless steels, nickel stabilizes the austenitic structure, which can better withstand impact and wear. In some wear – resistant alloys, nickel is added to improve the resistance to corrosive – abrasive wear, such as in the case of nickel – based superalloys used in turbine blades in corrosive and high – temperature environments.
4. Molybdenum (Mo)
   1. In Steels and Alloys: Molybdenum is an effective element for improving wear resistance. In alloy steels, it forms molybdenum carbides (Mo₂C), which are hard and stable. These carbides can resist abrasive wear and also have a positive effect on the material’s resistance to high – temperature wear. For example, in high – speed steels and tool steels, molybdenum helps to improve the cutting performance and tool life by reducing wear at high cutting speeds and temperatures. In some chromium – molybdenum steels, the combination of chromium and molybdenum provides excellent resistance to both corrosion and wear, making them suitable for applications in the chemical and petrochemical industries.
5. Vanadium (V)
   1. In Steels: Vanadium forms very hard vanadium carbides (VC). These carbides are evenly distributed in the steel matrix and act as wear – resistant particles. In high – strength steels and tool steels, vanadium carbides can significantly improve the wear resistance. For example, in some cold – work tool steels, the presence of vanadium carbides helps to resist wear during cold – forming operations such as punching and blanking. The vanadium carbides also contribute to the refinement of the grain structure, which further enhances the mechanical properties and wear resistance of the material.
6. Tungsten (W)
   1. In Alloys: Tungsten is a heavy and hard element. In tungsten – based alloys and high – speed steels, it forms tungsten carbides (WC). Tungsten carbides have extremely high hardness and wear resistance. They are widely used in cutting tools, such as carbide – tipped drills and milling cutters. The WC particles can resist abrasive wear and also have good resistance to thermal wear due to their high melting point and thermal stability. In addition, in some wear – resistant coatings, tungsten – based compounds are used to improve the wear – resistance of the substrate surface.