Wear Performance Investigation of Metal Matrix Composite

Abstract: To improve the abrasive wear resistant which is governed by a combination of both high hardness and toughness, WC particles were used to reinforce the Hadfield steel. This latter is known with its good work hardening property. WC is mainly considered for its combination of suitable hardness and toughness. Various characteristic techniques were applied to study the microstructure, interface layer, and reinforced region of the MMC. The microstructure characteristics of WC was analyzed using an Optical microscope (Alicona), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Vickers Hardness tester, and lab wear tester. The findings indicate that WC particles were evenly distributed inside the MMC and a well-fabricated metallurgical bond at interface has been formed between the matrix (Hadfield steel) and the WC particles. A significant increase in wear resistance and hardness was observed in all MMC samples in comparison with matrix.