STUDY OF THE INFLUENCE OF ELECTROLYTIC-PLASMA TREATMENT PARAMETERS ON THE SURFACE STRUCTURE AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF THE STRAIGHT TOOTH OF AN EARTHMOVING BUCKET

This study examines how electrolytic plasma treatment can improve the wear resistance of 30CrMnSi bucket teeth used in loaders operating under severe abrasive conditions. Samples were subjected to various processing methods, including electrolytic plasma hardening, nitriding, carburizing, nitrocarburizing hardening, and quenching. Multiple analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and microhardness testing, were used to comprehensively characterize the structure, phases, and mechanical properties of the samples. The tribological properties of the materials were evaluated using a TRB3 tribometer, and abrasive wear testing was conducted according to GOST 23.208–79. The results show that electrolytic plasma treatment results in the formation of diffusion layers with a thickness of 15 to 25 μm. This process is accompanied by the formation of carbide, nitride, and carbonitride phases (Fe₄C, Fe₇C₃, Fe₄N, Fe₂N, and Fe₃(CN)). This process significantly increases surface hardness (up to 810 HV) and improves wear resistance. The study also showed that electrolytic plasma nitriding provides an optimal balance between hardness and toughness, resulting in low friction and increased resistance to abrasive wear. The development of this technology can extend the service life of earthmoving and mining equipment components, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

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