Friction and wear characteristics of iron-based composites fabricated by hot isostatic pressing
摘要
To enhance mechanical properties and wear resistance under high-load conditions, various iron-based composite materials reinforced individually with 5 wt.% zirconia (ZrO2), titanium carbide (TiC), silicon nitride (Si3N4), and yttria (Y2O3) were fabricated using hot isostatic pressing (HIP). The initial microstructures of these composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. Their Vickers hardness, tensile properties, and tribological behaviors under applied loads of 10 N, 15 N, and 20 N were investigated. The results indicated distinct dispersion states and interfacial characteristics of different ceramic phases within the iron matrix. Among these composites, the Si3N4 particles showed the most uniform dispersion, achieving a hardness of 288.7 HV (61% higher than that of pure iron) and the highest tensile strength (2671 N). Tribological tests revealed that stable oxide films formed on Fe–Si₃N₄ and Fe–TiC composites under high loads, significantly reducing their wear volumes and improving wear resistance. Although the Fe–TiC composite exhibited the lowest wear volume at a load of 20 N, weaker interfacial bonding resulted in a noticeable decrease in its tensile properties. This study highlights the synergistic effects of different ceramic reinforcements on the microstructure and properties of various iron-based composite materials, offering valuable insights into the design of high-performance structural composites.