Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Hot Work Tool Steel Matrix Composites Produced by Hot Isostatic Pressing

Abstract

Steel matrix composites bring new possibilities in the production of inexpensive wear resistant materials for the chemical and process industries. Hot isostatic pressed composites consisting of a hot work tool steel matrix reinforced with different ceramic particles have been examined. The processing parameters used (1100°C temperature, 100 MPa pressure, and 3 h holding time) resulted in almost fully densified materials and an optimum metal–ceramic bonding. The introduction of ceramic particles caused grain size refinement in the iron alloy. The composites possessed excellent wear resistance and a much greater hardness than the unreinforced alloy; their toughness, however, was reduced. PM/0727