Boron Dispersion Layer of Paste Boronized 304 Stainless Steel before and after Shot Blasting Process

Abstract

Boronizing had been extensively used in enhancing the properties of metallic material such as steel by formation of hard casing on the surface of the substrate. This study highlighted the effect of applying surface deformation process which is shot blasting on the dispersion layer of paste boronized 304 stainless steel. Boronizing treatment was conducted using two different temperatures which are 850°C and 950°C for 6 hour holding time. Shot blasting process was conducted onto the surface of the samples before boronizing process in order to allow deeper boron dispersion layer. Microstructure and boron dispersion layer measurement were then accomplished using optical microscope. XRD analysis was performed to validate the existence of Fe2B phases and Rockwell hardness test was also conducted to obtain the hardness values. The results indicated that combinations of high boronizing temperature and shot blasting process facilitate deeper dispersion layer. Deeper dispersion layer are paramount as it will enhanced the hardness and wear properties.