Investigation of Cast Austempered Ductile Iron (CADI) Trackshoes in T-158Configuration

摘要

The document reports on the investigation of cast austempered ductile iron (CADI)T-158 trackshoes to determine any weight or cost advantages which can be gained from the Cadi process. Although the CADI process considerably improves the mechanical properties of ductile iron, this process does not result in a material suitable for trackshoes. Results of blast, ballistic, and cold temperature testing demonstrate the superiority of forged steel trackshoes. Any procurement cost savings are overshadowed by life cycle cost increases for a CADI track based upon their reduced durability. As a critical safety item, trackshoes require greater ductility and toughness than is afforded by CADI material. This report recommends that CADI trackshoes be rejected.