Fatigue Failure Analysis of a Speed Reduction Shaft

The mining industry sector is notable for the severe service loads and varied environmental conditions that it imposes on its equipment mechanical systems. It has become essential to identify causes of failures use information avoid similar improve projects. In this paper, a study shaft failure in speed reduction box was carried out. A section fractured made hardened austempered steel analyzed determine cause break. Fractography performed characterize mode fracture surface. microstructural analysis hardness profile revealed inadequately heat treated, resulting low resistance microstructures development thin layer bainite at edge. Large amounts inclusions were found region, tensile tests material had an elongation below specification. analyses showed combination factors large amount present banded structure, presence concentrated pores same acted synergistic way decrease fatigue life material.