Tribological Analysis of Failed Medium Carbon Steel Employed In a Critical Impact Loading Environment

This study investigates the wear and damage of medium carbon steel used in bone-crushing applications, emphasizing its tribological properties for early failure detection. The research analyzes failed samples using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and spark emission spectrometry to assess their metallographic and strength characteristics. Findings indicate that the steel suffers from impact and abrasion damage, with a ferrite microstructure linked to poor friction performance. Cross-sectional analyses reveal a distorted microstructure and significant carbide presence at grain boundaries. The study concludes that toughness and hardness are more critical for wear resistance than ferrite precipitation, with the hammer's wear behavior influenced by the specific rate of material loss.