Microstructural Impact of Si and Ni During High Temperature Quenching and Partitioning Process in Medium-Mn Steels

Abstract Austenite stabilization through carbon partitioning from martensite into austenite is an essential aspect of the quenching and (Q&P) process. Substitutional alloying elements are often included in chemical composition Q&P steels to further control microstructure development by inhibiting carbide precipitation (silicon) stabilize (manganese nickel). However, these can interfere development, especially when high temperatures considered. In this study, microstructural during process four low-carbon, medium-manganese with varying contents silicon nickel investigated. During at 400 °C, hinders cementite primary thereby assisting austenite. 500 °C 600 presence inhibits pearlite formation promotes reversion, respectively. It observed that significantly enhanced addition slowing down kinetics competitive reactions stimulated stage. Results study provide understanding interplay among carbon, processing will allow new design strategies tailor family alloys.