Cast simulation, microstructural characterization and investigation of mechanical and tribological properties of a part producted from en GJS 400 SFERO cast iron

In this study, the microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties of an axle housing part casted with GGG 40 material with variable section thickness, casting simulation and different mold breaking times are examined. In this way, it is aimed to prevent possible errors that may occur in casting parts exposed to impact loads in the industry and to improve production processes by eliminating the negativities faced by the relevant industrial organizations. In this context, primarily the basic principles of the production of spheroidal graphite cast irons are emphasized. Following this information, the microstructural, mechanical and tribological wear behaviors of the elements of spheroidal graphite cast irons in industrial applications and the properties that occur under this effect are examined. In the study, Magmasoft casting simulation program was used to model the casting processes, to obtain information about the changes in the mold while filling and after filling, and to make the necessary mathematical approaches. The parts that were cast under mass production conditions for the purpose of the study were produced by two different unmolding times to meet the balanced and unbalanced cooling conditions. The metallurgical properties of the produced parts were examined and the parts that did not meet the standard values were tried to be improved by softening with heat treatment. The microstructure, hardness, elongation, yield strength, tensile strength and wear behaviours of 12 samples consisting of 4 parts per each of the 3 different groups, produced with the specified production conditions have been examined. These results were evaluated by comparing with the results of the simulation program.