Mapping of impact-abrasive wear performance of WC-Co cemented carbides

A reliable evaluation of the wear resistance of materials used in conditions of combined impact and abrasion is of a paramount importance for industrial applications. A new tribo-device for studying impact-abrasive wear performance of materials was worked out. The specimen is pressed against a rotating steel wheel with abrasive being fed by gravity between them. The generator is supplying the tribosystem with impacts of predefined energy in a range of 0-19 J and a frequency up to 55 Hz. Cemented carbides of different binder content (6, 8, and 15 wt%) and carbide grain size (fine, medium, and coarse) were tested for impact-abrasive wear resistance. Maps reflecting the performance of cemented carbides at low and medium stress abrasion as well as medium stress abrasion combined with impact are constructed. The maps assessing the effects of stress intensity, dynamic loading, and combined effect of increase in stress and application of the dynamic load are thoroughly discussed. Microstructural analysis of the wear mechanisms is performed to support the conclusions.