Influence of secondary carbide precipitation and transformation on abrasion resistance of a 3Cr15Mo1V1.5 white iron

The relationship between the secondary carbide precipitation and transformation of the 3Cr15Mo1V1.5 white iron and abrasion resistance was investigated by using optical microscope (OM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that the properties of secondary carbides precipitated at holding stage play an important role in the abrasion resistance. After certain holding time at 833 K subcritical treatment, the grainy (Fe, Cr)₂₃C₆ carbide precipitated and the fresh martensite transformed at the holding stage for 3Cr15Mo1V1.5 white iron improve the bulk hardness and abrasion resistance of the alloy. Prolonging holding time, MoC and (Cr, V)₂C precipitations cause the secondary hardening peak and the corresponding better abrasion resistance. Finally, granular (Fe, Cr)₂₃C₆ carbide in situ transforms into laminar M₃C carbide and the matrix structure transforms into pearlitic matrix. These changes weaken hardness and abrasion resistance of the alloy sharply.