Open Access Conference Proceedings

This paper assesses the possibilities of graphitic cast iron parts and components of hydraulic turbines. The experimental program evaluated the behavior of spheroidal and vermicular graphite under conditions which simulated challenging work environment hydraulic machines. Five different graphitic irons allowed to assess the influence of the chemical composition, structure, basic metal matrix and character of graphite (shape, size and distribution) to the overall degradation of the material. The intensity of the damage was evaluated by testing the erosive wear, corrosion tests and metallographic analysis. Mechanical properties were verified by a tensile test, impact bending at room temperature and hardness test. The results confirmed the assumption that in achieving the appropriate structure, can spheroidal graphite cast respect predominant degradation mechanism of specific water machines and can be a suitable alternative to frequently used stainless steels.

Keywords: Graphitic cast iron, hydraulic turbines, erosion, abrasion, corrosion

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