Performance optimization of high resistant white cast iron for severe working applications

White cast irons are widely used in applications that require high resistance to abrasion, erosion and corrosion. In particular, high chromium cast irons show the best behavior under strongly aggressive environments. The microstructure obtained after heat treatments can affect the operative properties. This work studies the increase of the performance of castings made of high chromium cast iron (HBW555XCr27), performing unconventional heat treatments at temperatures above 1150°C. The optimization of heat treatment parameters was based on the results of microstructural analyses along with mechanical and corrosion characterization. The results demonstrated the efficiency of the heat treatment mainly in increasing the corrosion resistance of the high chromium cast irons.