Investigation of the microstructure, hardness, and compressive properties of TaC-reinforced lamellar graphite cast irons

Abstract

Tantalum Carbide (TaC) reinforcement was made to lamellar graphite (gray) cast irons that were produced in the physical conditions of a foundry at reinforcement ratios of 0%, 0.025%, 0.155%, and 0.285%. Samples complying with standards were prepared using the TaC-reinforced lamellar graphite (gray) cast iron alloys that were produced, and Brinell hardness tests, compressive strength tests, and microstructural analyses were conducted. According to the test results, the highest average Brinell hardness value was found as 231 HB in sample A which was reinforced at a ratio of 0.025%. In general, as the reinforcement ratio increased, there was an increase in the hardness test measurement results. The highest average compressive strength value was found as 949 MPa in sample C which was reinforced at a ratio of 0.285%. In general, as the reinforcement ratio increased, there was an increase in the compressive strength values. The results of the microstructural analyses showed that the reinforcement material was dispersed into the matrix.