Composite alloy wear parts for use in the mining industry

Abstract

New methods for manufacturing alloy composites have been used to produce a number of wear parts for the mining industry. The use of composites incorporating white cast iron and steel permit brittle and wear resistant materials to be used in applications where moderate impact conditions are encountered. Analysis of the alloy composite interfaces has provided an enhanced understanding of the bonding mechanisms between the white cast iron and the steel and has also permitted further improvements in the manufacturing techniques. Analysis methods used to examine the interfacial features include quantitative x-ray mapping (QXRM) and electron beam backscattered diffraction (EBSD) mapping. Examples of successful field trials include mineral sands dredging and wear parts for heavy earthmoving equipment.