Abrasive wear properties of experimental metastable duplex stainless steels

Based on the successful implementation of a range of duplex CrMnN alloys as pit props (hydraulic roof supports) used in deep level mines, it was envisaged that these alloys could be used in other mining applications. This paper thus evaluates the wear properties of a range of experimental metastable duplex CrMnN alloys under impact abrasive wear conditions. Other properties such as hardness, tensile strength and impact resistance are also examined so as to give a complete overview of the alloys' properties. Apart from the beneficial properties imparted to these alloys by nitrogen additions, the low nickel content means that the costs of these alloys are not subject to the high and variable market price of nickel.