This study analyzes the microstructural and mechanical evolution of K100 tool steel after applying a sequential heat treatment consisting of austempering at 270 °C, followed by tempering at 160 °C–220 °C. Optical microscopy and mechanical tests were used to evaluate the phase transformations and tensile behavior. The results show a gradual morphological change in the bainitic structure, along with partial carbide spheroidization, as the tempering temperature increased. Notably, tempering above 200 °C produced an optimal balance between strength and ductility, significantly reducing internal stresses while maintaining high hardness levels. This dual treatment strategy outperforms traditional quenching-tempering processes in terms of dimensional stability and energy absorption capacity.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Tempering Temperature: Influence on Mechanical Behavior and Microstructure of K100 (AISI D3) Steel

  • J. Suárez,
  • Cristian Leiva,
  • Nicolás Pinto-Guanotasig,
  • Jhon Luna-Jaen,
  • Xavier Sánchez-Sánchez

摘要

This study analyzes the microstructural and mechanical evolution of K100 tool steel after applying a sequential heat treatment consisting of austempering at 270 °C, followed by tempering at 160 °C–220 °C. Optical microscopy and mechanical tests were used to evaluate the phase transformations and tensile behavior. The results show a gradual morphological change in the bainitic structure, along with partial carbide spheroidization, as the tempering temperature increased. Notably, tempering above 200 °C produced an optimal balance between strength and ductility, significantly reducing internal stresses while maintaining high hardness levels. This dual treatment strategy outperforms traditional quenching-tempering processes in terms of dimensional stability and energy absorption capacity.