| abstract |
Sialon materials are suited for machining metal materials, preferably cast iron, due to their high wear resistance. Alpha/beta sialons in particular have a favorable combination of strength and tenacity. In addition to the mechanical properties at room temperature, the properties at temperatures of about 800°C to 1000°C are also critical for the use as a ceramic cutting material. An economical production of sialons, however, is possible only by the use of sintering additives, which, however, remain in the product as a predominantly glass-like grain boundary phase after cooling. The softening of this grain boundary phase determines the mechanical and chemical properties of the material at elevated temperatures. According to the invention, a material based on sialons is therefore provided, the proportion of sintering additive HfO2 of which is a maximum of 1 mass-%. |