Investigation of mechanical, kinetic and corrosion properties of borided AISI 304, AISI 420 and AISI 430

Abstract

In this study, three different types of stainless steels, AISI 304, AISI 420, and AISI 430 were pack borided under 850 °C–925 °C–1000 °C for 2, 4, and 6 h, respectively. Morphologies of coating were investigated by optical and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The maximum layer hardness was determined to be 1736 HV0.05, 1659 HV0.05, and 1572 HV0.05 for AISI 304, AISI 420, and AISI 430, respectively. Phases formed on the layer were determined by X-ray analysis (XRD) to confirm the presence of FeB, Fe2B, CrB, and MnB phases. Boride layer morphology was found to be a planar and compact structure. The activation energies of the coating were investigated. The corrosion resistance values of stainless steels were determined from the static immersion tests performed in 10% HCl solution. There was a remarkable increase in the corrosion resistance of borided steel compared to that of untreated samples.