low hardness high chrome iron
low hardness high chrome iron
(OP)
I have manufactured pump castings in high chrome iron containing 2.*% C and 27%Cr as per ASTM A 532 standards. However, I am encountering a low hardness problem. The hardness desired is 550 BHN,but I get 480-500. The heat treatment process is heat to 980C(Stepped heating) soak for 4 hours and then air cool with blowers.
I shall be thankful if someone could advise the cause and possible remedies.
I shall be thankful if someone could advise the cause and possible remedies.





RE: low hardness high chrome iron
It seems 980C for four hours is insufficient for the casting which you are heat treating. Raise the temerature 25C and see what improvement you get. If it is not enough, extrapolate on the basis of the change you got.
Before you do that, however, check your microstructure to make sure you don't have excessive retained austenite, which would soften, also. If that's the case, you need less soak and possibly a lower quench temperature.
RE: low hardness high chrome iron
I have increased the soaking temperature to 1025C and the time to 4.5 hours.
The hardness has improved by 50 points,but not exceeded beyond 550 BHn. What else should I try? Increase the rate of cooling by adding additional blowers?
RE: low hardness high chrome iron