Analysis of impact energy factors in ductile materials using single particle impact tests on gas gun

Wear is surface damage that involves progressive material loss due to relative motion between the contacting surfaces. Removal of material by action of impacting particles is known as erosion. Single particle impact tests were conducted using small particles (95–100 μm) and impact velocity 90 ms−1. A new technique has been developed to measure the impact crater using Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope (LSCM). Depth of craters was calculated based on the impact parameters and the material properties and compared with measured values. The variations are discussed with the high strain-rate deformation and energy loss in the material through strain energy and heating.

► Single particle impact tests were conducted to study deformation mechanisms. ► A novel method has been used to measure the depth of craters. ► Crater volumes for individual particles were determined using LSCM. ► Unit energy for material removal was determined for individual impacts.