A Countermeasure to Prevent Decarburization in Forging
Forging is an important process in the manufacture of metal components. During the forging process, decarburization occurs due to oxidation at the metal surface which could result in the reduction of the surface hardness and toughness of the metal components. This effect has a significant impact on the performance of the metal components and must be prevented. This article aims to discuss the measures to prevent decarburization in forging.
Firstly, it is essential to choose a material with high carbon content since high carbon steel has a higher resistance to oxidation and decarburization. The exact amount of carbon content is determined by a welding engineer who is familiar with the properties of the material and the forging process.
Secondly, once the material is selected, use specific pre-treatment processes to create a thinner surface oxide layer which acts as a protective layer during the forging process. This can be achieved by treating the material with different chemicals before it enters the forging process to etch the surface. Another way to create a thin layer is to use flame hardening. This involves heating the material surface to high temperatures with a high-temperature torch or induction process to create a hard and protective layer that prevents oxidation and decarburization.
Thirdly, the forging temperature must be chosen correctly. High forging temperatures can increase the rate of oxidation and decarburization, while lower temperatures may lead to excessive hardening of the workpiece surface and difficulties in forming and forming. An ideal forging temperature can be chosen based on the forging process and the material used.
Fourthly, it is necessary to take control measures during the forging process. The forging atmosphere must be clean and dry. The air must have a certain oxygen content and should be free from dust particles and pollutants. If the forging atmosphere is exposed to pollutant gases such as sulfur, the rate of oxidation and decarburization will increase significantly.
Lastly, deoxygenation of the molten metal material is necessary before pouring the molten metal into the mold and solidifying it. This process helps reduce the oxygen content in the molten material which can reduce the rate of oxidation and decarburization.
In summary, the countermeasures to prevent decarburization in forging include selecting a high-carbon material, pre-treatment, controlling the forging temperature, controlling the forging atmosphere, and deoxygenation of the molten material. All of these measures need to be taken to ensure the quality of the metal components and reduce the rate of decarburization.
