Effect of buttering on the wear behavior of the SMA welded hardfacing layer in a low-carbon steel

In this study, the effect of the buttering layer (18.5% Cr + 9% Ni) and the chemical composition of the hardfacing filler materials on the microstructure and wear behavior of the structural steel (S355JR) was investigated. The chromium-based hardfacing alloys deposited by shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) have also been investigated to establish the relationship between microstructures and wear properties. The microstructure of hardfacing deposits has been examined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. A linear reciprocating abrasive wear test experiment was conducted on the hardfacing deposits using an Al ball under constant wear test conditions. The experimental results show that the microstructure of hardfacing deposits consists of martensitic matrix and complex (M ) carbides. In addition, the increased chromium concentration of filler materials leads to an increase in the volume fraction of the primary carbides in the matrix of hardfacing deposits. The buttering layer caused the formation of diluted hardfacing deposits. Also, it significantly reduced the hardness and wear rate of hardfacing deposits. Fe14-Fe14 hardfacing deposit has exhibited the best wear properties with a low coefficient of friction.