Performance of the silicon carbide coating under erosion wear by erosion by solid particles

In this article, the phenomenon of erosion by solid particles on the silicon carbide coating (SiC) deposited on AISI 304 stainless steel substrates was analyzed. The specimens used were 25 mm square and 3 mm thick, using 300–450 μm silicon carbide as abrasive particles. Experimental tests were performed on an apparatus developed in accordance with some parameters of the ASTM G76-95 standard. Four angles of impact at 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° are contemplated with an approximate particle velocity of 25 ± 2 m/s with a maximum exposure time of 10 min per specimen, taking measurements of weight intervals every 2 min to determine the mass loss. The wear mechanisms that were identified to small angles were: plastic deformation, displacement of material, and plow mechanisms. While at higher impact angles, the mechanisms were mainly: cutting, pitting, fractures, and cracks. It was observed that the rate of erosion depends on the angle of incidence of the abrasive particles. The results indicated that a higher damage zone was obtained at 30° of impact angle; on the other hand, at an angle of 90° there was less damage.