Low-magnification Microstructure of ZG2Cr13 Steel After Oxy-Acetylene Flame Cutting
ZG2Cr13 steel is a complex alloy composed of multiple components, including zinc, germanium, chromium, and other elements. As a cutting material, it is often used to cut through various materials, such as metal, plastic, and wood. To achieve the desired results, different cutting techniques may be employed, such as oxy-acetylene flame cutting. This type of cutting utilizes a combination of two gases as a source of heat to cut through the material.
In this study, the effect of oxy-acetylene flame cutting on the microstructure of ZG2Cr13 steel was evaluated. The samples were cut with an oxy-acetylene flame at 2.0mm size. The cuts samples were then polished and etched with a 2 % nital etch for 1.5 minutes. The microstructure of the samples was then evaluated using a low-magnification microscope.
The results showed that the microstructure of the ZG2Cr13 steel was mostly composed of a matrix of interconnected austenite grains. Each austenite grain was characterized by a relatively high magnification of dendrite morphology, with a fine cementitic phase, observed within the grain boundary region. The grains displayed few microstructural defects, predominantly in the form of chip folds and cracks, which are likely a result of the cutting procedure.
Furthermore, there were some martensitic grains detected in large numbers along the grain boundary. The average martensitic grain size was estimated to be about 0.7µm and their shape was predominantly needle-like. The presence of these martensite formed under the thermal shock of the cutting process. The gaps between the austenites and the martensites were filled with an eutectoid structure, typically consisting of a fine combination of ferrite, carbides, and bainite.
The observed microstructure suggests that the ZG2Cr13 steel material was able to retain its original properties, with some minor distortions, after cutting with an oxy-acetylene flame. However, further tests are required in order to fully evaluate the effect of oxy-acetylene flame cutting on the material’s mechanical properties. Nevertheless, this investigation suggests that flame cutting is an effective cutting method for ZG2Cr13 steel.
