2Cr13 (spheroidizing annealing quenching, tempering treatment) metallographic diagram

Introduction

2Cr13 steel is a martensitic stainless steel containing chromium and molybdenum. The performance of 2Cr13 steel can be improved by means of spheroidization annealing and tempering. These two techniques are commonly used for steel heat treatment. This article will explain the Spheroidization annealing and tempering of 2Cr13 steel and their effects on the microstructure and properties. it will also discuss the comparison between 2Cr13 steel processed by conventional techniques and 2Cr13 spheroidization annealing and tempering techniques.

Definition and Process

Spheroidization annealing is a softening process that is used to make steel components more deformable and easier to machine. This process involves heating a metal part to a temperature below its austenitic transition point followed by a gradual cooling rate. The microstructure of the metal is then changed, creating a more uniform distribution of grains.

Tempering is a process in which the metal is heated to a temperature above its lower critical temperature, then slowly cooled below that temperature. This process changes the hardness and strength of the metal. It is used to make steel more resistant to wear and tear.

Effects on Microstructure

The spheroidization annealing and tempering of 2Cr13 steel affects the microstructure of the metal in several ways. First, the process results in a more uniform distribution of grains, reducing the strain at grain boundaries. This helps to improve toughness and reduce brittleness in the metal.

Second, the cooling rate has an effect on the microstructure. A faster cooling rate tends to create a finer grain size, which can improve the strength of the steel.

Third, the tempering of the steel can cause the grain boundaries to form into martensite laths. These laths increase the hardness of the steel while still allowing it to remain ductile.

Effects on Properties

The spheroidization annealing and tempering of 2Cr13 steel also affects the properties of the steel. First, this process can improve the ductility and toughness of the steel by creating a more uniform distribution of grains. This can reduce the risk of cracking and other damage during machining.

Second, the tempering of the steel can improve its wear resistance and strength. Tempering can increase the hardness and strength of the steel while still maintaining its ductility.

Comparison

It is important to compare conventional processing techniques to spheroidization annealing and tempering techniques for steel. Conventional techniques involve a single process step such as quenching, which can increase hardness and strength. However, these techniques can also reduce the ductility of the steel, making it more susceptible to cracking and other damage during machining.

On the other hand, spheroidization annealing and tempering techniques can produce similar levels of hardness and strength while still improving the ductility of the steel. This can help to reduce the risk of cracking and other damage during machining. Additionally, spheroidization annealing and tempering can create a more uniform distribution of grains, which can improve the toughness of the steel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the spheroidization annealing and tempering of 2Cr13 steel can offer several advantages over conventional techniques. This process can improve the ductility of the steel while also creating a more uniform distribution of grains, which can improve toughness. Additionally, tempering of the steel can improve its wear resistance and strength.

GP2Cr13 steel is a magnetic stainless steel with 3.0~4.0% Carbon and 15% Chromium content. It has a hardness of HRC38 ~ 43, which is slightly harder than AISI 304 stainless steel.

GP2Cr13 steel is commonly used for knife blades and other tools. Its magnetic stain resistance and relatively high wear resistance make it an attractive option for custom knife blades, agricultural tools and machine parts.

GP2Cr13 steel is a martensitic-type stainless steel and requires heat treatment after forging and shaping the steel. This increases its hardness and strength.

The heat treatment process involves a Normalizing step, where the steel is heated in an oven to between 815 and 920°C. The steel is then cooled at room temperature and then Reinforced or tempered at a temperature slightly higher than normalizing. This adds strength to the steel while still keeping it slightly malleable.

The steel is then Cryogenic-Quenched or sub-zero quenched, where the steel is cooled rapidly to approximately -180°C and then heated again to approximately -50°C. This process further increases the hardness and strength of the knife blade and can also increase the corrosion resistance.

Finally, the steel is Annealed or tempered again to reduce internal stresses. This softens the steel and increases its malleability.

After a GP2Cr13 steel is subjected to the heat treatment process, its microstructure is composed of an austenite grain network containing fine and even distribution of ferrite and carbides. The microstructure also contains large, heavily deformed grains with intrusions of carbides. These intrusions enhance the wear resistance of the steel and make it particularly suitable for blades and other tools which are subject to wear.

In conclusion, GP2Cr13 is a martensitic stainless steel with good hardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance. It is well suited for knife blades, machine parts and other tools which are subject to wear. The heat treatment process increases its corrosion resistance and hardness, making it a popular choice for custom knife blades and other tools.