Influence of Alloying Elements on Mechanical Properties of Sintered High Speed Steel Powders Diluted with Highly Compressible Powders

Abstract

The influence of carbon and nickel on the mechanical properties of high speed steel (HSS) powders diluted with a highly compressible powder (e.g. pure iron or low alloy steel powder 4401) has been investigated. The aim was to optimise the mechanical properties and microstructure in the sintered steel which is used for wear resistant applications. The results show that the carbon content is a critical factor in determining the mechanical properties and the amount of retained austenite in the sintered steel. Nickel additives enhance mechanical properties and do not significantly affect the amount of retained austenite at contents lower than 2%. The 4401 low alloy steel is a more suitable matrix than pure iron in this respect. The influence of retained austenite on the micro hardness of the prior HSS particles does not show any direct relationship with the mechanical properties of the sintered composite. PM/0668