The combination of hardness and ductility achieved by low-temperature carburization also enhances resistance to erosion. The graph shows the results of cavitation testing of treated and nontreated 316 stainless steel specimens.
Cavitation tests were carried out for up to six hours in duration, with a vibratory horn and mercury as the dense liquid medium. Results of these tests showed significant increases in cavitation resistance. An approximately eight-fold reduction in weight loss rate was achieved for the treated surfaces as compared to the nontreated surfaces for type 316 stainless steel.
These results have been replicated in other alloys and fluids, indicating that the diffusional nature of the case provides a benefit in fluid applications where cavitation can occur.
Volume 4D, Heat Treating of Irons and Steels → Heat Treated High-Alloy Steels → Low-Temperature Carburization of Austenitic Stainless Steels → Performance Properties of the Low-Temperature Carburized Layer → Wear Properties of the Low-Temperature Carburized Layer
