Correlation of martensitic transformation and surface mechanical behavior with cavitation erosion resistance for some iron-based alloys

Cavitation erosion resistance of four Fe–Mn–Si-based alloys and four Fe–Cr–Ni–Mn stainless steels has been investigated at a speed of 45 m/s using a rotating disc rig. Based on the research of surface mechanical effects and energy absorption of phase transformation, the role of martensitic transformation in cavitation erosion resistance of the tested alloys has been discussed. The results show that the effect of martensitic transformation on the resistance of the tested austenitic alloys is greatly influenced by cavitation-induced martensite structure. The resistance of the Fe–Mn–Si-based alloys is much better than that of the Fe–Cr–Ni–Mn stainless steels. The resistance of the tested alloys correlates with their localized surface elasticity He and work-hardening capacity. The role of phase transformation in the resistance of the tested austenitic alloys is associated with the localized surface elasticity He, work-hardening capacity and energy absorption of phase transformation, and it mainly depends on the elasticity He and work-hardening capacity. As the values of He of the tested martensitic and austenitic alloys are close, the resistance of the austenitic alloys can be obviously improved due to energy absorption of phase transformation. The excellent resistance of the Fe–Mn–Si-based alloys are mainly attributed to their excellent He and excellent work-hardening capacity.