Investigation of fracture mechanical properties of a brass alloy with microstructural variations

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Abstract

This study investigates the effect of microstructural variations on the mechanical properties of CuZn35Mn2Al1Fe1-C-GS brass alloy. Specimens taken from positions with different cooling rates in a large cast component exhibit coarse-grained (approximately 5 mm) and fine-grained (approximately 1 mm) microstructures. Fine-grained samples demonstrate at least a 7% increase in Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and up to a 33% higher long crack threshold ΔKth,lc. Hardness measurements are similar between microstructures. The NASGRO model and cyclic R-curve are applied to fit crack propagation data, and fractographic analysis reveals distinct fracture mechanisms. The results indicate that a fine-grained microstructure enhances tensile strength and crack resistance, providing valuable insights for the design and maintenance of heavy machinery components made from cast brass.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number110564
Number of pages22
JournalEngineering Fracture Mechanics
Volume311.2024
Issue number25 November
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 25 Nov 2024