Effect of tungsten addition on mechanical and wear performance of CrCoFeMoNiWx high entropy alloys

In the present study, new compositions CrCoFeMoNiW x of high entropy alloys were prepared though vacuum arc melting technique, and influence of tungsten addition on their wear behaviors and mechanical properties were systematically investigated. The incorporation of tungsten lead to formation of mixed-phases structure comprising FCC, and intermetallic μ phase within developed HEAs. As molar ratio of W increased, the proportion of μ phase increased and improved mechanical behavior of alloys. The CrCoFeMoNiW HEA exhibited a maximum Vickers hardness value of 768.4 HV at room temperature, and a hot hardness of 432.3 HV at 400 °C demonstrating a substantial enhancement in mechanical properties attributed to the addition of tungsten. The maximum compressive strength of 1573.8 MPa was achieved with 1 M addition of W. Additionally, wear performance was evaluated under dry sliding conditions using a reciprocating configuration. The minimum coefficient of friction value 0.12 and minimum specific wear rate of 8.7 × 10 −5 mm 3 /N m were measured for CrCoFeMoNiW HEA. These results demonstrate the potential of tungsten-containing CrCoFeMoNiW x HEAs for applications requiring superior mechanical strength and improved wear resistance.