Formation and Properties of Nitrocarburizing S-Phase on AISI 316L Stainless Steel-Based WC Composite Layers by Low-Temperature Plasma Nitriding

Stainless steel-based WC composite layers fabricated by a laser cladding technique, have strong mechanical strength. However, the wear resistance of is not sufficient for use in severe friction and environments, corrosion significantly reduced formation secondary carbides. Low-temperature plasma nitriding carburizing austenitic stainless steels, treated at temperatures less than 450 °C, can produce supersaturated solid solution nitrogen or carbon, known as S-phase. The combined treatment form nitrocarburizing S-phase, which characterized thick layer superior cross-sectional hardness distribution. During process, free carbon was produced decomposition particles. To achieve excellent resistance, we attempted to this S-phase on AISI 316 L alone. As result, formed. Vickers ranged from 1200 1400 HV, depth distribution became smoother. also improved through increasing pitting equivalent numbers due that dissolved steel matrix.