Novel study on mechanical properties of pack carburizing SCM 420 steel with energizer dog conch

Abstract

Dog conch shell powder (DCSP) and coconut shell powder (CSP) are used as the calcium carbonate source (energizer) and carbon source, respectively, in the pack carburizing of SCM 420 low carbon steel. The surface hardness of the carburized specimens is investigated for various CSP:DCSP ratios and carburizing temperatures. It is found that a significant improvement in the hardness level is obtained for a DCSP concentration of 40% and a carburizing temperature of 950°C. It is additionally shown that while DCSP can be used as an energizer in the carburizing process, it cannot be used as an activated carbon source. Finally, it is shown that the surface hardness of the carburized specimens can be significantly improved through a further quenching operation in water. Overall, the results presented in this study confirm the potential for utilizing natural resources such as DCSP and CSP for the pack carburizing of low-to-medium carbon steels.