Study of the Sintering Process of Iron Powders Coated with Nano-Hydrocarbon and the Resulting Microstructure at Temperatures up to 1200°C

The objective of the research is development and study of a new ecologically friendly and technologically advanced method for introduction of carbon during sintering of low alloyed iron powders ASC 100.29. The method is based on using hydrocarbon coating of the green powder, which transforms into carbon nanolayers between the powder particles, during the sintering process. The method avoids the use of graphite as alloying element and reductant, and allows for a much better homogenization, less porosity and overall increase of the quality of the final sintered product. The research presented is focused on the processes related to apparent density, fluidity and compressibility of the coated powder and resulting porosity after pressing and sintering. The aim is to determine the optimal coating conditions, and to acquire experimental data concerning key processes during the sintering and the originated microstructure. The sintering process was monitored in situ through DTA measurements and measurement of the exhaust gases pressure. Results obtained so far show better handling conditions for the green coated powders, compared to those using classical approach and higher homogeneity of the sintered specimens