Erosion mechanism of low-alloy steel at simulated conditions for artillery firing environment

Abstract

To investigate erosion mechanism as exposed to extreme interior ballistic environment within artillery barrels, a specially designed testing apparatus has been utilised to perform simulated erosion testing at stress-temperature regimes close to practical working conditions. Detailed metallographic examination after testing at 600°C with a contact force of 9000 N has identified erosion mechanisms involved with adhesive and oxidative wear with the formation of an ultra-fined grain layer in subsurface regions. The erosion mechanism during testing at 1000°C is associated with a significant loss of strength for the matrix due to austenitisation and rapid formation of porous oxides. The approach utilised in the present study has facilitated an evaluation of erosion resistance of barrel materials with high efficiency and low cost.