Effect of austenitizing temperatures on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AISI 9254 steel

Abstract

Abstract In this study, the effect of austenitizing temperatures and low-temperature isothermal heat treatment (below martensite start temperature) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AISI 9254 high silicon spring steel has been investigated. Experimental studies show that ultra-fine carbide-free bainite, tempered martensite and carbon enriched retained austenite could be observed in isothermally heat-treated samples where the as-received sample consisted of fine pearlite. A high tensile strength of ~2060 MPa, a total elongation of ~8 %, and absorbed energy of 105 J were achieved in a commercial high-Si steel by austempering below the Ms temperature. A good combination of strength and ductility has been obtained in prolonged austempering below the martensite start temperature (225 °C) from an austenitizing temperature of 870 °C.