A study on SiO2 particle erosion of flake graphite and spheroidal graphitecast irons

Types A and D flake graphite cast irons (Fe 3.11 wt.%-C 1.85 wt.%-Si) and s pheroidal graphite cast irons of two different nodule distributions (Fe 3.5 4 wt.%-C 2.48 wt.%-Si), each with ferritic and martensitic matrices, were c hosen in conduct SiO2 particle erosion tests in this study (average particl e velocity similar to 66 m s(-1)). For the cast irons of the same matrix ph ase, the results indicated that spheroidal graphite of coarser distribution led to better erosion resistance than finer distribution. Type A flaky gra phite led to better erosion resistance than type D and, on the whole, spher oidal graphite led to better erosion resistance than flaky graphite. For th ose with the same graphite morphology and distribution, ferritic matrix res ults in less wear loss when eroded under large-angle impact; martensitic ma trix results in less wear loss under oblique impact. Brittleness effect of both martensitic matrix and flaky graphite will cause maximum erosion rate to occur at higher impact angles. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.