Characterization of Microstructure of Hadfield Steel

Abstract

In this contribution, the preparation of metallographic sections and characterization of the microstructure of manganese Hadfield steels are discussed. The purpose of this paper is to provide information relevant to microstructural characterization of these steels. This type of steel is characterized by high resistance to abrasive wear, which is provided by surface strengthening through strain-induced martensitic transformation. Strengthening complicates the preparation of metallographic sections because the final microstructure can be influenced by the process and it can be eventually misinterpreted. Great attention must be paid to the choice of the etchant and the etching procedure. This contribution describes the entire metallographic characterization procedure, including the evaluation of grain size, micro-cleanness and presence of carbides on grain boundaries. It provides information for manufacturers and those, whose process and examine Hadfield steels with respect to their processing routes, wear resistance, non-magnetic properties and other aspects.