Effect of matrix structure on mechanical properties and dry rolling–sliding wear performance of alloyed ductile iron

The influence of matrix structure on mechanical properties and dry rolling–sliding wear performance of alloyed ductile iron was examined. Four kinds of alloyed ductile irons with different matrix structures were produced through an adequate balance of alloying elements. Tensile tests and dry rolling–sliding wear tests were carried out at room temperature. The results show that yield strength and ultimate tensile strength increase, while elongation decreases until the matrix fully becomes pearlite. The lower matrix hardness results in more graphite emerging on the contact surface, which yields the decrease in friction coefficient. Besides, the wear rate decreases with the increase in matrix hardness among alloyed ductile irons except that with full pearlite matrix, the wear performance of which seems to be deteriorated due to poor fracture toughness. The main wear mechanism is delamination under an air-cooling condition. Based on the results of mechanical and wear tests, ductile iron with about 80% pearlite exhibits better wear performance as well as relatively reasonable mechanical properties.