Ferrite or austenite grains: which is required for this application?
Ferrite or austenite grains: which is required for this application?
(OP)
I am trying to determine which type of grain structure (either ferritic fine as rolled grain or austenitic fine grain by application of correct steel making composition) needs to be included in a specification for AISI 1045. This steel will be used to make hand tools, which will be formed using a progressive die/stamping operation.
We normally always specify ferritic fine as rolled grains but the steel provider is asking if they should supply the steel in the austenitic grain form. I don't have the knowledge to answer this and would appreciate some help. We are working off of ASTM A29 for the material.
We normally always specify ferritic fine as rolled grains but the steel provider is asking if they should supply the steel in the austenitic grain form. I don't have the knowledge to answer this and would appreciate some help. We are working off of ASTM A29 for the material.





RE: Ferrite or austenite grains: which is required for this application?
If you are going to heat the material above 1500F, you probably will want a fine austenitic grain size (typically 5 or finer and is also typically only insured by chemistry control and not usually tested for at the mill). This means you shold have a fine-grained structure after your heat treating. If you have always used a steel with a fine-grained microstructure as your raw material, however, you may want to research the reasons the requirement was added to your purchasing requirements.
rp
RE: Ferrite or austenite grains: which is required for this application?
RE: Ferrite or austenite grains: which is required for this application?
Thank you for yet another excellent response. It was very helpful to have it explained that way. I'm jealous of your knowledge.
brimstoner,
Thank you. That makes sense that we'd need fine grains to improve formability.