Graphite Morphology’s Influence on Shot Peening Results in Cast Irons

The different shot peening responds of a grey cast iron (GI) with its flake graphite and a compacted cast iron (CGI) with its vermicular graphite was analyzed and compared in this paper. For peening using identical parameters, CGI showed a larger plastic deformation zone with higher subsurface compressive stresses than GI. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) mapping and backscatter electron imaging revealed that plastic deformation of the matrix near graphite inclusions is affected by the size and geometry of the graphite. The different behaviors of graphite are explained by their capability to damp mechanical force but at the same time to cause stress concentration in the matrix. The better shot peening results for CGI may be attributed to a lower damping effect of its graphite inclusions and capability of the matrix for larger plastic deformation.