This article will compare two types of base steel from abroad, outlining the chemical compositions and heat treatment specifications for each type.
Type 1: Ferritic Steel
Ferritic steel is a fairly low-cost form of steel that is magnetic and resistant to corrosion. It is typically composed of iron-chromium, iron-nickel and other small percentage of other elements. The alloying elements in ferritic steel help to increase its surface strength, while still providing a relatively low level of corrosion resistance. This type of steel is usually used in non-structural applications, such as decorative and cooking appliances, as its relatively low cost provides an economic advantage.
The heat treatment specifications for ferritic steel are typically as follows:
Annealing: It is annealed in hydrogen or inert gas atmosphere at a temperature of 900-1200℃ for 1-3 hours, and then cooled in air or cooled down in parent metal.
Quenching: It is quenched in water, oil or polymer at a temperature of 180-600℃, and then cooled in air or cooled down in parent metal.
Tempering: It is tempered at low temperatures (400℃) for 2 hours followed by air cooling.
Type 2: Martensitic Steel
Martensitic steel is an alloy of iron and other elements, including chromium, manganese and aluminum, that has higher strength and hardness than ferritic steel. It is not as corrosion resistant as ferritic steel, and is typically used in low-temperature applications such as machine parts, cutting tools and knives.
The heat treatment specifications for martensitic steel are typically as follows:
Annealing: It is annealed in hydrogen or inert gas atmosphere at a temperature of 1000-1400℃ for 1-8 hours, and then cooled in air or cooled down in parent metal.
Quenching: It is quenched in water, oil or polymer at a temperature of 200-700℃, and then cooled in air or cooled down in parent metal.
Tempering: It is tempered at low temperatures (600℃) for 2 hours followed by air cooling.
In conclusion, ferritic steel is a low-cost steel that is magnetic and resistant to corrosion, while martensitic steel is harder and stronger than ferritic steel, but is less corrosion resistant. Both types of steel require a heat treatment specification to ensure the best performance. With the right heat treatment specifications, both ferritic and martensitic steel can be used in a variety of different applications.
