Evolution of friction-induced microstructure of SUS 304 meta-stable austenitic stainless steel and its influence on wear behavior

The microstructure evolution of the worn surface and sub-surface layer of SUS 304 austenitic stainless steel (ASS) disc against Al2O3 ceramic ball were studied on the basis of the tribological behaviors in the tests performed using a Cameron-Plint TE67 pin-on-disc tester. The microstructure after friction test was observed by optical and scanning electron microscope. The possible phase transformation of meta-stable austenite to martensite was detected by X-ray diffractometer. Results showed that friction-induced deformation led to finer grain at the subsurface beneath the worn surface. Furthermore, white layer was observed on some worn surface layers after higher normal loads. Transformed martensite from the austenite appeared on the worn surface under both low and high normal-loading conditions. Absence of transformed martensite was detected at the site about 25 μm below the worn surface although the grains at the site were still intensive and fine. In addition, the specific wear rate of SUS 304 stainless steel specimens was measured, and the possible reasons affecting the wear behavior were analyzed and discussed.