Effect of oxidation on erosive wear behaviour of boiler steels

High efficiency of thermal processes in energy applications is available at high temperatures. The ashes and other components in fluidized-bed boilers act as an erodent particles provoking the competition and interaction between the oxidation and erosion processes. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of oxidation on the erosive behaviour of boiler steels. Tests were performed using specially developed device allowing testing in either oxidizing or protected atmosphere in a cyclic mode. Several parameters are proposed and the assessment is done on their applicability to describe the erosion–oxidation phenomena under different impact angles. It is shown that under specific conditions oxide scales provide improved wear resistance for some steels, particularly austenitic ones, that enables reduced material losses. ► Device enables to study the effect of oxidation on erosion. ► Several parameters are proposed to describe the erosion–oxidation phenomena. ► Softening is favourable only for oxidation-resistant MML forming steels. ► Additional synergistic component is determined. ► Austenitic steels are required for temperatures >600°C under cyclic conditions.