Effect of Sintering Conditions on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Stellite 6 Alloy Fabricated by MIM Process

Abstract

Stellite is an alloy consisting mainly of Co with additions of Cr and W. It has excellent heat and wear resistance but is generally finished by machining after casting because it is very difficult to machine. In this study, the effects of sintering conditions on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Stellite6 alloy fabricated by the metal injection molding process were investigated. The injection-molded compacts were sintered in a vacuum at temperatures between 1225°C and 1275°C and holding times of 135 minutes. The microstructure of the sintered alloys consisted of Co, Cr carbides, and Cr oxides. The tensile strength and elongation of the alloy were 1225MPa and 14% at a sintering temperature of 1250°C.