Surface Engineering for Improving Performance of Mining and Agricultural Implements

Abstract

Numerous implements used in the mining and agricultural sectors undergo constant wear and so require frequent replacement, resulting in significant financial losses. One way of reducing wear related problems is through surface engineering of the wear prone surface. A variety of surface engineering techniques are commercially available for tribological applications, although cost and convenience in repair and maintenance situations are of considerable importance in selecting a particular method. The most suitable surface modification methods for mining and agricultural implements are welding, hardfacing, and thermal spraying. In addition to attaining the desired wear resistance ofthese implements, improvements in properties such as corrosion resistance can be imparted through appropriate surface modification techniques. The techniques of surface engineering can also permit the use of a cheaper or inferior substrate material. This paper is an overview of the potential of the different surface engineering techniques for improving tribological performance. A number of case studies are discussed where these techniques have been applied successfully in themining and agricultural sectors.