Effect of tungsten addition on the microstructure and tensile properties of in situ TiB2/Fe composite produced by vacuum induction melting

In situ TiB2 particulate reinforced Fe-based composite was produced by vacuum induction melting (VIM) technique. The effect of tungsten element on the microstructure and tensile properties of the composite was investigated. The results show that the tungsten can dissolve into the TiB2 particulates and the segregation of TiB2 is reduced. Meanwhile, with the addition of 3.0 wt.% tungsten, the composite is solid strengthened and an optimal tensile property can be obtained. The yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation to rupture (Er) of the composite reach as high as 360 MPa, 690 MPa and 18.5%, respectively. The fracture morphologies also indicate that the addition of 3.0 wt.% tungsten results in the increase of plastic fracture.