Abstract: A wear resistant, high chromium white iron, in an unheat-treated condition has a microstructure substantially comprising austenite and M7C3 carbides. The white iron contains at least one martensite promoter and at least one austenite stabilizer which are present at respective levels to achieve a balance between their effects whereby the white iron has a microstructure characterized by at least one of: i) being substantially free of martensite at interfaces between the austenite and M7C3 carbides; and ii) having a relatively low level of interconnectivity between carbide particles; such that the white iron is substantially crack-free. The white iron may be as-cast or comprise weld deposited hardfacing.

Abstract: A wear resistant, high chromium white iron, in an unheat-treated condition has a microstructure substantially comprising austenite and M7C3 carbides. The white iron contains at least one martensite promoter and at least one austenite stabiliser which are present at respective levels to achieve a balance between their effects whereby the white iron has a microstructure characterised by at least one of: i) being substantially free of martensite at interfaces between the austenite and M7C3 carbides; and ii) having a relatively low level of interconnectivity between carbide particles; such that the white iron is substantially crack-free. The white iron may be as-cast or comprise weld deposited hardfacing.

Abstract: Rolls for metal shaping have at least a peripheral surface of an iron-based Fe—B or Fe—B—C cast alloy having from 1 to 20 wt % chromium; from 0.5 to 3 wt % boron; up to 1.0 wt % carbon; or higher carbon if substantial amounts of strong carbide forming elements such as Mo, V, Ti, W and Nb are present; optional alloying additions including the Mo, V, Ti, W and Nb and also including Si, Al, Mn, Ni and Cu; and, apart from incidental impurities, a balance of Fe.