This paper studies the antimicrobial activity of selected engineering materials surfaces at room and chill temperatures. The antimicrobial effects of selected materials surfaces were evaluated by dropping the test pie...This paper studies the antimicrobial activity of selected engineering materials surfaces at room and chill temperatures. The antimicrobial effects of selected materials surfaces were evaluated by dropping the test pieces into prepared cultures of Bacillus spp, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aereus isolated from fruits, animal feaces and natural environment respectively. Bacteria count obtained after 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 and 300 minutes at room temperature and chill condition was taken and compared with their initial count. The amount of live bacteria drops by several orders of magnitude, to zero, on metallic copper and brass within 30 to 300 minutes in both room and chill conditions. In contrast, no reduction is seen in the number of colonies of live bacteria on plastics, ceramic and stainless steel in both room and chill conditions. These results suggest that the selection of metallic copper and brass for touch surfaces in hospitals, surfaces exposed to fruit processing and household utensils can materially assist in reducing bacterial contamination, which should lead to a reduction in the transmission of infectious organisms.展开更多
The solidification structure of the as-cast consists of the matrix structure that is predominantly austenite and precipitated chromium carbide along the grain boundary. Under these circumstances and where the level of...The solidification structure of the as-cast consists of the matrix structure that is predominantly austenite and precipitated chromium carbide along the grain boundary. Under these circumstances and where the level of impact is relatively modest, such alloys in as-cast condition will perform. However, at higher levels of impact energy, a point is reached where excessive stress are built up within the component and eventually the materials strength is exceeded and the outcome is complete failure in a characteristic stress fracture mode. If this is to be prevented, it is therefore imperative that the casting be subjected to appropriate heat treatment, to obtain a structure which consist of Cr7C3 carbide and martensite at a hardness range of 650-750HB. The microstructure of NF6357A cast chromium steel containing 2.59% C- 0.7%Si-0.91%Mn-18.54%Cr-0.019%P-0.01%S- balance–Fe after appropriate heat treatment such as quenching and tempering process have been characterised by means of optical microscope, micro hardness tester, optical emission spectrometer and charpy testing machine. The results show that oil quenched samples were found to retained microstructural consistency for casting thicker than 120mm section. For economic argument, air quenched castings of less than 120mm thickness is not only cheaper alternative, but it is also environment friendly. The fracture toughness was found to be fairly consistent between 2.4-2.6%C range. However, at higher carbon level, the fracture process is dominated by the presence of segregated carbide network which act as a weak link in the microstructure. This weak link encourages dislocation pile-up and impaired material toughness.展开更多
Theductility and hardness of AA6011/SiCp composites using NaCl, SnCl2, NH4Cl and PdCl2 as wetting reagents were investigated. SiCp was cleaned with the wetting reagents, and used as reinforcement in AA6011 alloy using...Theductility and hardness of AA6011/SiCp composites using NaCl, SnCl2, NH4Cl and PdCl2 as wetting reagents were investigated. SiCp was cleaned with the wetting reagents, and used as reinforcement in AA6011 alloy using the stir casting method. Ductility and hardness responses of the composites were measured using standard methods. Microstructural features were examined using scanning electron microscopy and the phases were determined with the help of an X-ray diffractometer. The results show that for all wetting agents, the increase in cleaning time leads to initial increase in ductility to a certain value, but a decrease afterwards with further increase in cleaning time. The best combination of hardness （BHN 57.88） and ductility （11.91%） was shown under conditions of 40 g/L SnCl2and cleaning time of 60 min. A minor formation of Al4C3was noted in diffraction patterns, indicating that the formation of deleterious precipitate was hindered by the cleaning process.展开更多
Models have been derived for assessment and computational analysis of the hardness of the heat affected zone (HAZ) in aluminum weldment. The general model;γ = 1.2714[(αβ/α + β)] was found to predict the HAZ hardn...Models have been derived for assessment and computational analysis of the hardness of the heat affected zone (HAZ) in aluminum weldment. The general model;γ = 1.2714[(αβ/α + β)] was found to predict the HAZ hardness of aluminum weldment cooled in water as a function of the HAZ hardness of both mild steel and cast iron welded and cooled under the same conditions. The maximum deviations of the model-predicted HAZ hardness values γ, α and β from the corresponding experimental values γexp, αexp and βexp were less than 0.02% respectively.展开更多
An alloy of cast iron and copper (Fe-Cu) has been developed using a stir cast process. The compo-sitional, microstructural characterization and wear property of the developed Fe-Cu alloy were carried out with the aids...An alloy of cast iron and copper (Fe-Cu) has been developed using a stir cast process. The compo-sitional, microstructural characterization and wear property of the developed Fe-Cu alloy were carried out with the aids of X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and pin on Disc machine. The mechanical properties such as hardness and impact energy were investigated. Wear linear equations were generated with the aids of MATLAB linear fitting. The results revealed that the presence of copper (99% pure) in the melt of grey cast iron inhibited the formation of cementite. However, the impact energy of the grey cast iron increased with %weight (wt) of copper addition. Hence, the hardness and wear resistance of the developed Fe-Cu alloy were sacrificed. Hence, the developed Fe-Cu alloy is an excellent material which can be used in the vibration damping application especially in the shock absorber.展开更多
This paper presents the effect of deformation on the tensile strength, toughness, hardness and electrical resistance of aluminum 6063 alloy. Cast samples were cold rolled in the range of 0-24 percent thickness reducti...This paper presents the effect of deformation on the tensile strength, toughness, hardness and electrical resistance of aluminum 6063 alloy. Cast samples were cold rolled in the range of 0-24 percent thickness reduction and subjected to mechanical (static, dynamic) and electrical resistance tests. Results show significant improvement in hardness and electrical resistance properties of the alloy. The nature, amount and distribution of the secondary phase, Mg2Si,particles precipitated within the matrix which was influenced by the extent of cold-work, are responsible for the observed behaviour. The resistance of the alloy also depends on the degree of cold work carried out prior to use.展开更多
In this study, high chromium white iron (HC-Wi) alloy and the Hadfield steel were studied. The microstructure of this high-chromium iron was studied using Metallurgical optical microscopy (OM) and compared to the Hadf...In this study, high chromium white iron (HC-Wi) alloy and the Hadfield steel were studied. The microstructure of this high-chromium iron was studied using Metallurgical optical microscopy (OM) and compared to the Hadfield steel. The hardness and unnotched charpy impact strength of the HC-Wi alloy and Hadfield steel were examined at ambient temperature in the as-cast and heat-treated conditions. A pin-on-disc test at linear speed of 1.18 m/s and a 10 N normal load was employed to evaluate the wear behavior of both steel samples. Microstructural results showed that varying the carbon level in HC-Wi alloys can affect the chromium carbide morphology and its distribution in the austenite matrix which leads to considerable changes of the mechanical properties. Abrasion test showed that HC-Wi alloys have superior wear resistance, about three times of the Hadfield steel.展开更多
A 13% chromium white iron was produced using a stir cast process. Samples of the produced white iron were austenised at 1450°C and then quenched in water to the room temperature. The characterisation tools such a...A 13% chromium white iron was produced using a stir cast process. Samples of the produced white iron were austenised at 1450°C and then quenched in water to the room temperature. The characterisation tools such as X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, Brinell hardness tester and pin on disc machine were employed in the studies of the phase orientation and morphology, hardness value measurement and investigation of wear behaviour. The results revealed that water quenching the 13% chromium white iron led to the precipitation of fine iron chromides and cementite in the matrix of martensite. Moreover, there is an about 22% to 45% increase in hardness values of the as-cast 13% chromium white iron as the %composition of graphite additions increased from 1.36 to 3.04. However, the impact energy values are sacrificed. The increase in hardness values is attributable to hard intermetallic compounds such as iron chromides and cementite phases in the iron matrix. Also, there is an about 32% - 42% increase in hardness values of the heat treated samples of 13% chromium white iron when compared with those of the as-cast. The increased hardness values are attributable to even distribution of the fine intermetallic compounds in the fine grains of martensitic matrix. The wear rate increased as the sliding moments per unit time increased due to increasing work done by the friction to oppose the rotation of the pin on disc. The water quenched 13% chromium white iron samples have greater wear resistances than the as-cast samples due to their greater hardness values than those of the as-cast samples. The effect of speed increase on decreasing wear resistances is more pronounced on the heat treated samples than on the as-cast samples. Hence, the water quenched 13% chromium white iron is an excellent material in application requiring high wear resistance and low impact energy especially in grinding mill liner plate, bottom or casing used in the concrete pipe production, roller for crushing and pulverising mills.展开更多
The effect of palm kernel shell on the microstructure and mechanical properties of recycled polyethylene (RLDPE) reinforced with palm kernel shell particulate composite was evaluated to assess the possibility of using...The effect of palm kernel shell on the microstructure and mechanical properties of recycled polyethylene (RLDPE) reinforced with palm kernel shell particulate composite was evaluated to assess the possibility of using it as a new material for engineering applications. The composites were produced by compounding and compressive moulding technique by varying the Palm kernel shell particle from 5-25vol% with particles size of 150, 300 and 400 μm. The microstructure (SEM/EDS) and the mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. The hardness of the composite increases with increase in palm kernel shell content and the tensile strength of the composite increased to optimum of 5vol%. Scanning electron Microscopy (SEM) of the composites surfaces indicates fairly interfacial interaction between the palm kernel shell particles and the RLDPE matrix. The composites produced with 150 μm particle size have the best properties of the entire grade. Hence this grade can be use for interior applications such as car seat, dash board, and car interior for decorative purposes or other interior parts of automobile where high strength is not considered a critical requirement.展开更多
Carbide precipitates in Thin Wall Ductile Iron (TWDI) used for automotive applications needs to be eliminated or reduced for improved strength, ductility, crack propagation resistance and good machinability. Ductile i...Carbide precipitates in Thin Wall Ductile Iron (TWDI) used for automotive applications needs to be eliminated or reduced for improved strength, ductility, crack propagation resistance and good machinability. Ductile iron thin section profiles (≤3 mm) present danger of massive carbide precipitations in the as-cast sample. Precipitated carbide phase is brittle and negatively affects the mechanical properties of the iron matrix. The suppression of carbide formation is associated with the nucleating properties of the nodularizer and innoculant alloys. This treatment is vital in ensuring that carbide precipitation, flake graphite structure and non-nodular graphite phases are reduced or completely eliminated in the TWDI castings. Therefore, the temperature and technique of treatment would influence the yield of the process, and ultimately the mechanical properties. In this study, the effect of nodularization and inoculation treatment temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TWDI castings is examined. The results indicate that good nodularity and nodule count with better percent elongations are achieved using low treatment temperatures in descending order of 1490°C, 1470°C and 1450°C, but have negative effect at lower treatment temperature of 1430°C. However, TWDI castings have superior properties in terms of nodule counts and nodularity at 1450°C. Treatment temperature does not produce significant influence on ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and hardness of TWDI castings. TWDI castings show poor nodularity, nodule count and ductility at higher inoculation treatment temperatures of 1550°C, 1530°C and 1510°C.展开更多
The mechanical properties as well as microstructure of Cu-30.6 wt% Zn alloys containing 0.01 wt% lead has been investigated. The brass alloy was cast and then cold rolled at various percentage reductions: 20%, 25%, 30...The mechanical properties as well as microstructure of Cu-30.6 wt% Zn alloys containing 0.01 wt% lead has been investigated. The brass alloy was cast and then cold rolled at various percentage reductions: 20%, 25%, 30%, 35% and 40% followed by stress relieving annealed at 450℃. Hardness, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and impact toughness values were evaluated at every stage of reduction. It was discovered that the strength, hardness and impact energy all increased with increased percentage reduction. Finally, the optical microscope of the samples was done and the result achieved correlated with the mechanical properties.展开更多
In this work, the effect of heat input on the mechanical properties of low-carbon steel was studied using two welding processes: Oxy-Acetylene Welding (OAW) and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). Two different edge pr...In this work, the effect of heat input on the mechanical properties of low-carbon steel was studied using two welding processes: Oxy-Acetylene Welding (OAW) and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). Two different edge preparations on a specific size, 10-mm thick low-carbon steel, with the following welding parameters: dual welding voltage of 100 V and 220 V, various welding currents at 100, 120, and 150 Amperes and different mild steel electrode gauges of 10 and 12 were investigated. The tensile strength, hardness and impact strength of the welded joint were carried out and it was discovered that the tensile strength and hardness reduce with the increase in heat input into the weld. However, the impact strength of the weldment increases with the increase in heat input. Besides it was also discovered that V-grooved edge preparation has better mechanical properties as compared with straight edge preparation under the same conditions. Microstructural examinations conducted revealed that the cooling rate in different media has significant effect on the microstructure of the weldment. Pearlite and ferrite were observed in the microstructure, but the proportion of ferrite to pearlite varied under different conditions.展开更多
The synergetic effect of calcium carbonate (CC)-fly ash (FA) hybrid filler particles on the mechanical and physical properties of low density polyethylene (LDPE) has been investigated. Low density polyethylene is fill...The synergetic effect of calcium carbonate (CC)-fly ash (FA) hybrid filler particles on the mechanical and physical properties of low density polyethylene (LDPE) has been investigated. Low density polyethylene is filled with varying weight percentages of FA and CC using melt casting. Composites are characterized for mechanical, thermal, microstructural and physical properties. Results show that the flexural strength increases with increases in FA content of the hybrid filler. It is evident from the study that to achieve optimum density a certain combination of both fillers need to be used. The optimum combination of CC and FA for a higher density (1.78 g/cm3) is found to be at 20 wt% FA and 30 wt% CC. An increase of 7.27% in micro-hardness over virgin polyethylene is obtained in composites with 10 wt% FA and 40 wt% CC. The presence of higher amount of CC is seen to be detrimental to the crystallinity of composites. X-ray, FTIR and DSC results show that composite with 45 wt% CC and 5 wt% FA exhibits a typical triclinic polyethylene structure indicating that the composite is amorphous in nature. There was the synergy between FA and CC fillers on flexural strength and crystallinity of composite. However, the fillers show the antagonistic effect on energy at peak and micro-hardness.展开更多
The development of synthetic biomaterials for bone fixations has greatly enhanced orthopedic surgery efficiency over the last two decades. With the advancement in medical technology, several materials such as metals, ...The development of synthetic biomaterials for bone fixations has greatly enhanced orthopedic surgery efficiency over the last two decades. With the advancement in medical technology, several materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers and composites have been considered over the years for possible implantation into the body. These materials however, must have the following required properties that will qualify them as potential medical devices: biocompatibility, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, creep resistance, etc. The quest in making up for the disadvantages of metallic fixations has culminated in a paradigm shift to the use of biodegradable polymers. Biodegradable polymers are light-weight materials with low elastic moduli between 0.4 - 7 GPa. These materials can be engineered to degrade at rates that will slowly transfer load to the bone. In addition, complications like corrosion, release of metal ions and stress shielding associated with metal implants are eliminated. This review considers studies carried out on most commonly investigated and widely used synthetic biodegradable polymers, their successes and limitations. It also provides process for efficient utilization of these polymers as bone fixtures without inflammation and stress shielding.展开更多
This paper investigates the wear characteristic of grey cast iron composition under dry lubrication conditions. The effects of sliding speed, applied load, time and percentage of ferrosilicon additions, on the wear ra...This paper investigates the wear characteristic of grey cast iron composition under dry lubrication conditions. The effects of sliding speed, applied load, time and percentage of ferrosilicon additions, on the wear rate of grey cast iron were studied. The set of experimental data were taken in a controlled and sequential manner. Scanning electron microscope was used to examine the morphology of the samples as well as the worn out surfaces. Linear regression equation and analysis of variances (ANOVA) showed that the main effect of silicon additions, load and speed variable are more pronounced on the wear behaviour of the grey cast iron. Also, the result showed that the additions of silicon improved the wear resistance of the grey cast iron as the wear parameters such as speed, load and time varied. The study showed that wear transition occurred at 3.2% silicon addition.展开更多
The Jominy end quench machine was designed, manufactured and tested. The manganese steel was developed. The as-cast manganese steels were quenched in water at different austenising temperatures and hardenability test ...The Jominy end quench machine was designed, manufactured and tested. The manganese steel was developed. The as-cast manganese steels were quenched in water at different austenising temperatures and hardenability test was carried out on the samples cut at different distances from the quenched surface with the use of the manufactured Jominy end quench machine. The optical microscope was used to investigate the microstructure of the cut samples. Results revealed that the Jominy end quench machine worked effectively with short cycle time and improved water management system. The extremely rapid cooling prevents the decomposition of the chromium carbides. However, the hardness values of the samples decreased with increase in the distance from the quenched surface and the size of the chromium carbides increased with austentic temperatures which is responsible for reduction in the hardness values of the quenched samples at higher austentinic temperature. The manufactured Jominy end quench machine has advantages of improved water management system and short processing time over the existing ones.展开更多
This study examines some physical and mechanical characteristics of polypropylene (PP) and calcium trioxocarbonate IV (CaCO3) composites prepared by melt blending. The mechanical (tensile strength and impact energy re...This study examines some physical and mechanical characteristics of polypropylene (PP) and calcium trioxocarbonate IV (CaCO3) composites prepared by melt blending. The mechanical (tensile strength and impact energy resistance) and physical (density and water absorption capacity) properties of the composites were evaluated using 0% - 40% of the filler. The results showed that 20%-CaCO3 addition improved the ultimate tensile stress by 58%, and the UTS is 84% better when 25%-CaCO3 addition is made while the impact resistance decline by 8 and 12% respectively at these two compositions. In addition, the density only differ from that of pure PP at 25% CaCO3 addition by 18% increment, however, water absorption increased by 400% at 10%-CaCO3 addition.展开更多
The morphology and mechanical properties of coconut shell reinforced polyethylene composite have been evaluated to establish the possibility of using it as a new material for engineering applications. Coconut shell re...The morphology and mechanical properties of coconut shell reinforced polyethylene composite have been evaluated to establish the possibility of using it as a new material for engineering applications. Coconut shell reinforced composite was prepared by compacting low density polyethylene matrix with 5% - 25% volume fraction coconut shell particles and the effect of the particles on the mechanical properties of the composite produced was investigated. The result shows that the hardness of the composite increases with increase in coconut shell content though the tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, impact energy and ductility of the composite decreases with increase in the particle content. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of the composites (with 0% - 25% particles) surfaces indicates poor interfacial interaction between the coconut shell particle and the low density polyethylene matrix. This study therefore exploits the potential of agrobased waste fiber in Nigeria as an alternative particulate material for the development of a new composite.展开更多
文摘This paper studies the antimicrobial activity of selected engineering materials surfaces at room and chill temperatures. The antimicrobial effects of selected materials surfaces were evaluated by dropping the test pieces into prepared cultures of Bacillus spp, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aereus isolated from fruits, animal feaces and natural environment respectively. Bacteria count obtained after 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 and 300 minutes at room temperature and chill condition was taken and compared with their initial count. The amount of live bacteria drops by several orders of magnitude, to zero, on metallic copper and brass within 30 to 300 minutes in both room and chill conditions. In contrast, no reduction is seen in the number of colonies of live bacteria on plastics, ceramic and stainless steel in both room and chill conditions. These results suggest that the selection of metallic copper and brass for touch surfaces in hospitals, surfaces exposed to fruit processing and household utensils can materially assist in reducing bacterial contamination, which should lead to a reduction in the transmission of infectious organisms.
文摘The solidification structure of the as-cast consists of the matrix structure that is predominantly austenite and precipitated chromium carbide along the grain boundary. Under these circumstances and where the level of impact is relatively modest, such alloys in as-cast condition will perform. However, at higher levels of impact energy, a point is reached where excessive stress are built up within the component and eventually the materials strength is exceeded and the outcome is complete failure in a characteristic stress fracture mode. If this is to be prevented, it is therefore imperative that the casting be subjected to appropriate heat treatment, to obtain a structure which consist of Cr7C3 carbide and martensite at a hardness range of 650-750HB. The microstructure of NF6357A cast chromium steel containing 2.59% C- 0.7%Si-0.91%Mn-18.54%Cr-0.019%P-0.01%S- balance–Fe after appropriate heat treatment such as quenching and tempering process have been characterised by means of optical microscope, micro hardness tester, optical emission spectrometer and charpy testing machine. The results show that oil quenched samples were found to retained microstructural consistency for casting thicker than 120mm section. For economic argument, air quenched castings of less than 120mm thickness is not only cheaper alternative, but it is also environment friendly. The fracture toughness was found to be fairly consistent between 2.4-2.6%C range. However, at higher carbon level, the fracture process is dominated by the presence of segregated carbide network which act as a weak link in the microstructure. This weak link encourages dislocation pile-up and impaired material toughness.
基金the University of Lagos, Nigeria, for providing the platform for the Tetfund Research Grant (CRC/ TETFUND/No.2011/2013) used for this research
文摘Theductility and hardness of AA6011/SiCp composites using NaCl, SnCl2, NH4Cl and PdCl2 as wetting reagents were investigated. SiCp was cleaned with the wetting reagents, and used as reinforcement in AA6011 alloy using the stir casting method. Ductility and hardness responses of the composites were measured using standard methods. Microstructural features were examined using scanning electron microscopy and the phases were determined with the help of an X-ray diffractometer. The results show that for all wetting agents, the increase in cleaning time leads to initial increase in ductility to a certain value, but a decrease afterwards with further increase in cleaning time. The best combination of hardness （BHN 57.88） and ductility （11.91%） was shown under conditions of 40 g/L SnCl2and cleaning time of 60 min. A minor formation of Al4C3was noted in diffraction patterns, indicating that the formation of deleterious precipitate was hindered by the cleaning process.
文摘Models have been derived for assessment and computational analysis of the hardness of the heat affected zone (HAZ) in aluminum weldment. The general model;γ = 1.2714[(αβ/α + β)] was found to predict the HAZ hardness of aluminum weldment cooled in water as a function of the HAZ hardness of both mild steel and cast iron welded and cooled under the same conditions. The maximum deviations of the model-predicted HAZ hardness values γ, α and β from the corresponding experimental values γexp, αexp and βexp were less than 0.02% respectively.
文摘An alloy of cast iron and copper (Fe-Cu) has been developed using a stir cast process. The compo-sitional, microstructural characterization and wear property of the developed Fe-Cu alloy were carried out with the aids of X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and pin on Disc machine. The mechanical properties such as hardness and impact energy were investigated. Wear linear equations were generated with the aids of MATLAB linear fitting. The results revealed that the presence of copper (99% pure) in the melt of grey cast iron inhibited the formation of cementite. However, the impact energy of the grey cast iron increased with %weight (wt) of copper addition. Hence, the hardness and wear resistance of the developed Fe-Cu alloy were sacrificed. Hence, the developed Fe-Cu alloy is an excellent material which can be used in the vibration damping application especially in the shock absorber.
文摘This paper presents the effect of deformation on the tensile strength, toughness, hardness and electrical resistance of aluminum 6063 alloy. Cast samples were cold rolled in the range of 0-24 percent thickness reduction and subjected to mechanical (static, dynamic) and electrical resistance tests. Results show significant improvement in hardness and electrical resistance properties of the alloy. The nature, amount and distribution of the secondary phase, Mg2Si,particles precipitated within the matrix which was influenced by the extent of cold-work, are responsible for the observed behaviour. The resistance of the alloy also depends on the degree of cold work carried out prior to use.
文摘In this study, high chromium white iron (HC-Wi) alloy and the Hadfield steel were studied. The microstructure of this high-chromium iron was studied using Metallurgical optical microscopy (OM) and compared to the Hadfield steel. The hardness and unnotched charpy impact strength of the HC-Wi alloy and Hadfield steel were examined at ambient temperature in the as-cast and heat-treated conditions. A pin-on-disc test at linear speed of 1.18 m/s and a 10 N normal load was employed to evaluate the wear behavior of both steel samples. Microstructural results showed that varying the carbon level in HC-Wi alloys can affect the chromium carbide morphology and its distribution in the austenite matrix which leads to considerable changes of the mechanical properties. Abrasion test showed that HC-Wi alloys have superior wear resistance, about three times of the Hadfield steel.
文摘A 13% chromium white iron was produced using a stir cast process. Samples of the produced white iron were austenised at 1450°C and then quenched in water to the room temperature. The characterisation tools such as X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, Brinell hardness tester and pin on disc machine were employed in the studies of the phase orientation and morphology, hardness value measurement and investigation of wear behaviour. The results revealed that water quenching the 13% chromium white iron led to the precipitation of fine iron chromides and cementite in the matrix of martensite. Moreover, there is an about 22% to 45% increase in hardness values of the as-cast 13% chromium white iron as the %composition of graphite additions increased from 1.36 to 3.04. However, the impact energy values are sacrificed. The increase in hardness values is attributable to hard intermetallic compounds such as iron chromides and cementite phases in the iron matrix. Also, there is an about 32% - 42% increase in hardness values of the heat treated samples of 13% chromium white iron when compared with those of the as-cast. The increased hardness values are attributable to even distribution of the fine intermetallic compounds in the fine grains of martensitic matrix. The wear rate increased as the sliding moments per unit time increased due to increasing work done by the friction to oppose the rotation of the pin on disc. The water quenched 13% chromium white iron samples have greater wear resistances than the as-cast samples due to their greater hardness values than those of the as-cast samples. The effect of speed increase on decreasing wear resistances is more pronounced on the heat treated samples than on the as-cast samples. Hence, the water quenched 13% chromium white iron is an excellent material in application requiring high wear resistance and low impact energy especially in grinding mill liner plate, bottom or casing used in the concrete pipe production, roller for crushing and pulverising mills.
文摘The effect of palm kernel shell on the microstructure and mechanical properties of recycled polyethylene (RLDPE) reinforced with palm kernel shell particulate composite was evaluated to assess the possibility of using it as a new material for engineering applications. The composites were produced by compounding and compressive moulding technique by varying the Palm kernel shell particle from 5-25vol% with particles size of 150, 300 and 400 μm. The microstructure (SEM/EDS) and the mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. The hardness of the composite increases with increase in palm kernel shell content and the tensile strength of the composite increased to optimum of 5vol%. Scanning electron Microscopy (SEM) of the composites surfaces indicates fairly interfacial interaction between the palm kernel shell particles and the RLDPE matrix. The composites produced with 150 μm particle size have the best properties of the entire grade. Hence this grade can be use for interior applications such as car seat, dash board, and car interior for decorative purposes or other interior parts of automobile where high strength is not considered a critical requirement.
文摘Carbide precipitates in Thin Wall Ductile Iron (TWDI) used for automotive applications needs to be eliminated or reduced for improved strength, ductility, crack propagation resistance and good machinability. Ductile iron thin section profiles (≤3 mm) present danger of massive carbide precipitations in the as-cast sample. Precipitated carbide phase is brittle and negatively affects the mechanical properties of the iron matrix. The suppression of carbide formation is associated with the nucleating properties of the nodularizer and innoculant alloys. This treatment is vital in ensuring that carbide precipitation, flake graphite structure and non-nodular graphite phases are reduced or completely eliminated in the TWDI castings. Therefore, the temperature and technique of treatment would influence the yield of the process, and ultimately the mechanical properties. In this study, the effect of nodularization and inoculation treatment temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TWDI castings is examined. The results indicate that good nodularity and nodule count with better percent elongations are achieved using low treatment temperatures in descending order of 1490°C, 1470°C and 1450°C, but have negative effect at lower treatment temperature of 1430°C. However, TWDI castings have superior properties in terms of nodule counts and nodularity at 1450°C. Treatment temperature does not produce significant influence on ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and hardness of TWDI castings. TWDI castings show poor nodularity, nodule count and ductility at higher inoculation treatment temperatures of 1550°C, 1530°C and 1510°C.
文摘The mechanical properties as well as microstructure of Cu-30.6 wt% Zn alloys containing 0.01 wt% lead has been investigated. The brass alloy was cast and then cold rolled at various percentage reductions: 20%, 25%, 30%, 35% and 40% followed by stress relieving annealed at 450℃. Hardness, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and impact toughness values were evaluated at every stage of reduction. It was discovered that the strength, hardness and impact energy all increased with increased percentage reduction. Finally, the optical microscope of the samples was done and the result achieved correlated with the mechanical properties.
文摘In this work, the effect of heat input on the mechanical properties of low-carbon steel was studied using two welding processes: Oxy-Acetylene Welding (OAW) and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). Two different edge preparations on a specific size, 10-mm thick low-carbon steel, with the following welding parameters: dual welding voltage of 100 V and 220 V, various welding currents at 100, 120, and 150 Amperes and different mild steel electrode gauges of 10 and 12 were investigated. The tensile strength, hardness and impact strength of the welded joint were carried out and it was discovered that the tensile strength and hardness reduce with the increase in heat input into the weld. However, the impact strength of the weldment increases with the increase in heat input. Besides it was also discovered that V-grooved edge preparation has better mechanical properties as compared with straight edge preparation under the same conditions. Microstructural examinations conducted revealed that the cooling rate in different media has significant effect on the microstructure of the weldment. Pearlite and ferrite were observed in the microstructure, but the proportion of ferrite to pearlite varied under different conditions.
文摘The synergetic effect of calcium carbonate (CC)-fly ash (FA) hybrid filler particles on the mechanical and physical properties of low density polyethylene (LDPE) has been investigated. Low density polyethylene is filled with varying weight percentages of FA and CC using melt casting. Composites are characterized for mechanical, thermal, microstructural and physical properties. Results show that the flexural strength increases with increases in FA content of the hybrid filler. It is evident from the study that to achieve optimum density a certain combination of both fillers need to be used. The optimum combination of CC and FA for a higher density (1.78 g/cm3) is found to be at 20 wt% FA and 30 wt% CC. An increase of 7.27% in micro-hardness over virgin polyethylene is obtained in composites with 10 wt% FA and 40 wt% CC. The presence of higher amount of CC is seen to be detrimental to the crystallinity of composites. X-ray, FTIR and DSC results show that composite with 45 wt% CC and 5 wt% FA exhibits a typical triclinic polyethylene structure indicating that the composite is amorphous in nature. There was the synergy between FA and CC fillers on flexural strength and crystallinity of composite. However, the fillers show the antagonistic effect on energy at peak and micro-hardness.
文摘The development of synthetic biomaterials for bone fixations has greatly enhanced orthopedic surgery efficiency over the last two decades. With the advancement in medical technology, several materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers and composites have been considered over the years for possible implantation into the body. These materials however, must have the following required properties that will qualify them as potential medical devices: biocompatibility, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, creep resistance, etc. The quest in making up for the disadvantages of metallic fixations has culminated in a paradigm shift to the use of biodegradable polymers. Biodegradable polymers are light-weight materials with low elastic moduli between 0.4 - 7 GPa. These materials can be engineered to degrade at rates that will slowly transfer load to the bone. In addition, complications like corrosion, release of metal ions and stress shielding associated with metal implants are eliminated. This review considers studies carried out on most commonly investigated and widely used synthetic biodegradable polymers, their successes and limitations. It also provides process for efficient utilization of these polymers as bone fixtures without inflammation and stress shielding.
文摘This paper investigates the wear characteristic of grey cast iron composition under dry lubrication conditions. The effects of sliding speed, applied load, time and percentage of ferrosilicon additions, on the wear rate of grey cast iron were studied. The set of experimental data were taken in a controlled and sequential manner. Scanning electron microscope was used to examine the morphology of the samples as well as the worn out surfaces. Linear regression equation and analysis of variances (ANOVA) showed that the main effect of silicon additions, load and speed variable are more pronounced on the wear behaviour of the grey cast iron. Also, the result showed that the additions of silicon improved the wear resistance of the grey cast iron as the wear parameters such as speed, load and time varied. The study showed that wear transition occurred at 3.2% silicon addition.
文摘The Jominy end quench machine was designed, manufactured and tested. The manganese steel was developed. The as-cast manganese steels were quenched in water at different austenising temperatures and hardenability test was carried out on the samples cut at different distances from the quenched surface with the use of the manufactured Jominy end quench machine. The optical microscope was used to investigate the microstructure of the cut samples. Results revealed that the Jominy end quench machine worked effectively with short cycle time and improved water management system. The extremely rapid cooling prevents the decomposition of the chromium carbides. However, the hardness values of the samples decreased with increase in the distance from the quenched surface and the size of the chromium carbides increased with austentic temperatures which is responsible for reduction in the hardness values of the quenched samples at higher austentinic temperature. The manufactured Jominy end quench machine has advantages of improved water management system and short processing time over the existing ones.
文摘This study examines some physical and mechanical characteristics of polypropylene (PP) and calcium trioxocarbonate IV (CaCO3) composites prepared by melt blending. The mechanical (tensile strength and impact energy resistance) and physical (density and water absorption capacity) properties of the composites were evaluated using 0% - 40% of the filler. The results showed that 20%-CaCO3 addition improved the ultimate tensile stress by 58%, and the UTS is 84% better when 25%-CaCO3 addition is made while the impact resistance decline by 8 and 12% respectively at these two compositions. In addition, the density only differ from that of pure PP at 25% CaCO3 addition by 18% increment, however, water absorption increased by 400% at 10%-CaCO3 addition.
文摘The morphology and mechanical properties of coconut shell reinforced polyethylene composite have been evaluated to establish the possibility of using it as a new material for engineering applications. Coconut shell reinforced composite was prepared by compacting low density polyethylene matrix with 5% - 25% volume fraction coconut shell particles and the effect of the particles on the mechanical properties of the composite produced was investigated. The result shows that the hardness of the composite increases with increase in coconut shell content though the tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, impact energy and ductility of the composite decreases with increase in the particle content. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of the composites (with 0% - 25% particles) surfaces indicates poor interfacial interaction between the coconut shell particle and the low density polyethylene matrix. This study therefore exploits the potential of agrobased waste fiber in Nigeria as an alternative particulate material for the development of a new composite.
