Novel wear-resistant materials – Carbon fiber reinforced low-carbon Stellite alloy composites

This paper reports the design and development of a class of new composite materials, which are low-carbon Stellite alloy matrices reinforced with carbon fibers. The focus of the research is to compare the different effects of carbon fibers versus carbides on Stellite alloys. Stellite 25 was selected as the matrix because of its very low carbon content (0.1 wt.%), thus minimal carbide volume fraction. The composite specimens are fabricated using the hot isostatic pressing and sintering techniques. The microstructures of the specimens are examined with optical microscopy in order to identify the possible carbide formation from the carbon fibers. The material characterization of the specimens is achieved through hardness test, sliding wear test and corrosion test. These novel materials exhibit superior properties compared to existing Stellite alloys and are expected to spawn a new generation of materials used for high temperature, severe corrosion, and wear resistant applications in various industries.