Research Article
Dr. K. M. KenchiReddy, Dr. C.
Abstract
In this research work, three welding parameters were used, applied through one welding process: that is shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). The three welding variables of the tests are used to deposit hardfacing layer on mild steel specimens. The hardfacing deposits were evaluated using the dry sand-rubber wheel machine according to procedure A of the ASTM G65 standard. Optical and scanning electron microscopy was used for the characterization of the microstructure and worn surface of deposits. The hardfacing deposit formed by uniformly distributed carbides rich in chromium and carbon presented the highest abrasive wear resistance.Hardfacing-1 (electrode-I) having more abrasive wear resistance than hardfacing-2 (electrode-II). The investigation reveals that a clear relation between hardness and the abrasive wear resistance of the deposits has been observed. The results showed that the most important variable to improve abrasion resistance is the microstructure of hardfacing deposits, where the carbides act as barriers to abrasive particle cutting or ploughing into the surface layer during the wear process, thereby noticeably lowering the wear loss.