Austenite stabilization in Cr 13% Ni 4–6% steels

The present article deals with the study of the effects of concentration changes taking place in the matrix during partial austenitization of Cr 13% Ni 4–6% steel, while it is tempered, in the range of intercritical temperatures, on the structural stability of forming austenite. In the investigation, the authors made use of some special techniques of the potential polarization method and electron microanalysis. Some geometrical factors, such as the morphology and distribution of austenite areas were also studied. Increased austenite content in the matrix provides for an increased level of plastic properties and for improved technological characteristics. The stability of austenite areas depends on their morphology, distribution and, above all, on their dimensions - their thickness should not exceed 0.15 to 0.20 μm. The increase in nickel content observed in these areas was as much as 100% compared with the nominal nickel content of this steel.