Effect of induction hardening of Fe-C-Ni-Cu-Mo-B metal matrix composites by powder metallurgy for gear production

Purpose: In this study, mechanical behavior of iron base (Fe-0.8 C-2.0 Cu-1.5 Ni-X Mo-Y B (%wt.), x=0.6, 1.2 and 1.8; Y=0.2, 0.6 and 1.0) metal matrix composite (MMC) by powder metallurgy was investigated for gear production. Effect of Mo and B elements on surface hardness, density and microstructure of the composite samples. Design/methodology/approach: MMC has produced by warm compaction method followed by free sintering in controlled Ar gas atmosphere. Green composite has produced under 650 MPa pressure at 160ºC temperature. The green products have been sintered at temperature of 1150ºC and 60 min sintering time. Hardness test have been conducted before and after induction hardening. The microstructure of the samples have been examined before and after induction hardening under optical microscopy. Findings: The results have showed that the highest surface hardness has been obtained X=1.8 and Y=1.0 composition. Addition of Mo and B elements does not affect on the density of the sample. Research limitations/implications: The ability of induction hardening to composite material has been investigated. Originality/value: The studies were carried out in experimental composition with warm compacting method.