| 1 | Overlay Chemistry | A documented chromium-carbide alloy chemistry, commonly using approximately 3–5% carbon and 20–35% chromium, depending on the application. | Heat-analysis report, chemical composition range, and applicable product specification. | Chemistry controls carbide formation, abrasion resistance, weldability, and service performance. |
| 2 | Hardness and Microstructure | Overlay hardness commonly falls around 55–65 HRC, with chromium carbides distributed through a metallic matrix; the specified value should match the wear mechanism. | Hardness map, metallographic image, test method, and sampling plan. | High hardness alone is not sufficient; carbide distribution and matrix integrity strongly affect durability. |
| 3 | Base-Plate Compatibility | A weldable carbon-steel or low-alloy-steel backing plate with declared grade, thickness tolerance, and mechanical properties. | Base-metal mill certificate, thickness report, and welding recommendations. | The backing plate provides structural support and determines forming, cutting, and installation options. |
| 4 | Overlay Thickness Control | Typical overlay thicknesses range from about 3 to 20 mm, with a clearly stated nominal value and allowable tolerance. | Thickness map, dimensional inspection report, and finished-plate drawing. | Consistent thickness supports predictable wear life, fit-up, and replacement planning. |
| 5 | Weld Quality and Crack Management | Surface checking should distinguish acceptable stress-relief checking from harmful defects; crack limits must be defined in the purchase specification. | Visual inspection procedure, non-destructive testing records, and acceptance criteria. | Controlled checking can be normal in some overlays, while uncontrolled cracking may reduce service reliability. |
| 6 | Abrasion-Test Data | Comparative testing should use a recognized method such as ASTM G65 or an equivalent documented procedure, with test conditions stated. | Independent or controlled laboratory report showing test wheel, load, abrasive, distance, and mass loss. | Standardized testing makes wear performance easier to compare between materials and suppliers. |
| 7 | Dimensional and Flatness Accuracy | The supplier should declare plate-length, width, thickness, hole-location, and flatness tolerances before production. | Inspection and test plan, dimensional report, and sample measurement records. | Accurate dimensions reduce field machining, installation delays, and fit-up problems. |
| 8 | Cutting, Drilling, and Fabrication Capability | Available processes should include suitable plasma or abrasive cutting, controlled drilling, beveling, and fabrication guidance. | Process capability statement, cutting limits, tooling guidance, and fabricated samples. | Fabrication capability is important when plates must be supplied as liners, segments, or finished assemblies. |
| 9 | Quality Management and Traceability | A documented quality system, batch identification, retained inspection records, and material traceability from raw material to shipment. | Quality certificate, audit records, serial or heat-number system, and corrective-action procedure. | Traceability supports consistent production, root-cause analysis, and warranty resolution. |
| 10 | Application Support and Lifecycle Cost | The supplier should recommend material grades, overlay thickness, attachment methods, and maintenance practices based on impact, abrasion, temperature, and corrosion conditions. | Application questionnaire, reference installations without confidential brand details, technical datasheet, warranty terms, and total-cost estimate. | Correct material selection and service support often matter more than purchase price alone. |