Features of the interaction of the Fe-Ni-Cr-Cu-Mn alloy with gray cast iron

The use of antifriction cast irons operating under lubrication conditions for manufacturing machine and mechanism parts is currently inefficient and unjustified due to the need for continuous lubrication. This complicates maintenance, increases the risk of environmental contamination by lubricants, and also results in relatively low strength and resistance to impact loads. This work investigates the possibility of creating an antifriction material with self-lubricating capabilities during operation by alloying gray cast iron with the Fe-Ni-Cr-Cu-Mn alloy system. The process of obtaining the alloy is explored with the aim of developing technological conditions for producing a high-entropy alloy by casting. The research was conducted using metallographic, X-ray phase, and chemical analysis methods. Technological modes for the production of the Fe-Ni-Cr-Cu-Mn alloy have been developed. It consists of two solid solutions with FCC lattices and complex carbides (FeCr)7C3. It was shown that its liquidus and solidus temperatures (1346 °C and 1004 °C, respectively) are relatively low, which makes it suitable for alloying gray cast iron. This allows avoiding significant overheating and holding during alloying, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the process. It was established that the optimal amount of alloy addition to gray cast iron is 0.5% by weight, and the resulting alloyed material, in terms of its chemical composition, structure, and properties, is closest to standardized antifriction cast irons. The use of the Fe-Ni-Cr-Cu-Mn alloy provides an opportunity to develop an energy-efficient technological process for producing an antifriction material capable of self-lubricating during friction.