Mechanical and microstructure properties of chilled cast iron camshaft: Experimental and computer aided evaluation

In the present study, the mechanical and metallographic properties of camshafts produced from chilled cast iron were examined experimentally and numerically relating with the solidification, cooling rate and metal flow. First of all, with the help of the 3-dimensional drawing and design programs the whole casting methodology was planned. This planning was analyzed with casting simulation software. After that camshafts were produced experimentally at the foundry. Chill material was used in order to get rapid cooling. The phases, dendrite structure and dendrite arm spacing on the lobes of camshaft were examined with an optic microscope and XRD. The Brinell, Rockwell and Vickers hardness tests were carried out on surfaces of lobes and camshafts. On the rapid cooling areas, the ledeburitic phase and high hardness values, on the slow cooling surfaces, rosette like graphite in pearlitic and low ferrite phase and low hardness values were examined. On the chill areas 2-15 mu m DAS (dendrite arm spacing) were measured. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.