Embrittlement failure of 51CrV4 leaf springs

High strength quenched and tempered alloys are used in the manufacture of leaf springs, peening techniques to induce compressive residual stresses on tension surface individual leaves resist fatigue crack growth. However, extent such is usually limited around 0.1–0.2 mm deep. Their beneficial effect can therefore be negated by corrosion pitting, while high steels known also susceptible environmental embrittlement chloride environments. This case study deals with an interesting example multileaf springs reportedly made from 60Si2Mn steel, but actually manufactured 51CrV4 steel. Multiple cracks initiated pits failures occurred within 6–9 months service entry vehicles. The was triggered disinfecting cleaning regime that reflected use trucks for conveying animal feed.