Tribological Testing Of Rock Drilling Tools

Sammanfattning

This study evaluates the erosion resistance of rotary bit hardfacing materials under high velocity solid particle erosion at impact angles of 30°, 60°, and 90°. The investigated materials were Medium WC Metal Inert Gas (MIG) as for welding method, High WC Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) as for welding method, and Low WC Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) as for welding method. The results showed that erosion resistance is primarily governed by microstructural characteristics, particularly tungsten carbide content, carbide distribution, and matrix support strength. Among the tested materials, High WC exhibited the best erosion resistance due to its high carbide content and uniform carbide distribution. In contrast, Medium WC and Low WC showed similar performance under the tested conditions. SEM analysis revealed wear mechanisms including micro-cutting, pitting, matrix erosion, and carbide-related damage. Overall, the findings demonstrate that optimizing carbide content and distribution is essential for improving the erosion resistance and service life of rotary bit hardfacings.