Effect of Dissolving of WC/W₂C on the Interface Microstructure of Iron Matrix Hardfacing Alloys

Abstract

Hardfacing alloys reinforced with WC/W2C on Q235 steel plates were prepared by the method of flux-cored wire TIG and MIG welding. The interface microstructure and carbide morphology were investigated using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect of dissolving of WC/W2C on the interface microstructure was discussed. It indicated that the C-W-Fe ternary brittle compound has formed on the interface due to dissolving of WC/W2C and the dissolving degree of the particles by TIG is less than by MIG. Abrasion resistance was evaluated by wet sand rubber wear tests and the wear mechanism was studied. The results show that WC/W2C particles play a key role in improving abrasion resistance.