Evaluación del efecto de la adición de 3% de nitrógeno en una aleación de base hierro blanca en sus características de resistencia al desgaste y morfología microestructural para la fabricación de asientos de válvulas

Abstract

The present proposal addresses the challenges faced by valve seats in high-performance engines, particularly in terms of wear resistance, thermal stability, and machinability. Conventional alloys currently available fail to fully meet these requirements, affecting the performance and durability of the engine. For this reason, the project's objectives include evaluating the effect of adding 3% nitrogen to a white iron-based alloy on its wear resistance, metallographic, and microstructural characteristics. The project methodology involves several key stages. First, a manufacturing process for the materials will be conducted, where the loads for casting will be adjusted and balanced, considering the chemical compositions required to achieve the desired properties. Appropriate casting techniques will be used, along with the preparation of molds specifically designed for this purpose. Subsequently, the microstructural characterization of the manufactured materials will be carried out, using both conventional optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. A detailed analysis of the internal structure of the materials before and after thermal and mechanical treatments will be performed, aiming to understand how these processes affect their properties. Finally, mechanical tests will be conducted to evaluate the wear resistance and hardness of the materials. This will include hardness tests using a durometer, as well as wear tests to simulate the real conditions to which the materials will be exposed in engines. A thorough analysis of the results obtained from the mechanical tests will be conducted, allowing the determination of the suitability of the materials for application in valve seats.