Abstract
Optimization of the composition and the heat treatments to provide a microduplex structure of dislocated-autotempered lath martensite and thin film retained austenite for good combinations of mechanical properties has been attained for Fe/Cr/C base steels. Substituting 0.5 wt pct Mo to reduce Cr from 4 pct to 3 pct did not affect the microstructures nor the properties. It was found that air melting as compared to vacuum melting does not cause deterioration of toughness in Mn containing alloys but does so in Ni containing alloys. Tempered martensite embrittlement was confirmed as being due to the decomposition of retained austenite. Further improvements in the fracture toughness are achieved by double heat treatments which provide grain refinement. These alloys are considered to be very promising for structural applications.
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Sarikaya, M., Steinberg, B.G. & Thomas, G. Optimization of Fe/Cr/C base structural Steels for improved strength and toughness. Metall Trans A 13, 2227–2237 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02648394
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02648394