The metallurgical analysis of the cast and solution treated ZGCr18Ni12Mo3Ti (cast and solution treated) alloy was conducted in order to research the microstructure, composition and mechanical properties of the alloy. It is an austenitic stainless steel with a Cr ratio of 18:12, and Mo and Ti added as alloying agents.
Microstructural Analysis. Studies of the microstructure of the alloy revealed an austenitic matrix structure with small amounts of retained austenite and secondary phases. The retained austenite was characterized by needle-like structures throughout the matrix, with no evident grain boundaries. The secondary phases were composed mostly of iron-rich carbides, with small amounts of titanium-rich carbides present near the grain boundaries.
Composition Analysis. Chemical analysis of the alloy was performed using multiple techniques, including energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, and diffraction analyses. The results of these analyses showed that the alloy had a high chromium content (18.1%), along with appropriate amounts of manganese (0.6%), nickel (12.1%), molybdenum (3.3%), and titanium (2.2%). The mass fraction of elements other than chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and titanium were found to be below 0.1%.
Mechanical Properties Analysis. Tensile testing was performed on the alloy in order to determine its strength and ductility. Results showed that the alloy had 1311 MPa of ultimate tensile strength, with a total elongation of 42.8%. These results demonstrate the excellent mechanical properties of the alloy, which can be attributed to its austenitic matrix structure and carbide additions.
Conclusion. Examination of the cast and solution treated ZGCr18Ni12Mo3Ti alloy revealed an austenitic matrix with needle-like retained austenite and secondary phases. The composition was found to be high in chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and titanium, with other elements present in low concentrations. Tensile testing showed that the alloy has excellent strength and ductility. This research is expected to provide valuable information for the design of new material systems and applications for this alloy.