Changes in the Structure of Steel during Quenching in a Magnetic Field

Abstract

The structure of martensite obtained by quenching steel under the action of a constant magnetic field was studied. The kinetic changes of the martensitic transformation, caused by the action of a magnetic field, are expressed in the structure by an increase in the dispersity of the transformation products. Samples of steels C45, 100CrMn6 and 30HGSA were investigated. Dispersity was evaluated statistically in images obtained on light and electron microscopes. The specific surface area was measured and the parameters of the surface relief caused by martensitic transformation were studied. Experimental data show that after quenching in a magnetic field, a decrease in the volumetric strain of the transformation, an increase in the dispersity of packets of martensitic crystals and components of the packets are observed. It is concluded that an increase in dispersion and a fragmentation of the structure of martensite are mainly the result of multiplicative nucleation.