Microstructure development of pearlitic railway steels subjected to fast heating

The influence of soaking and cooling rates on the final microstructure a R260Mn pearlitic railway steel subjected to fast heating is investigated. Fast-heating experiments followed or not by at different were performed using quenching dilatometry specimens obtained from rail head. Additional cyclic done investigate evolution during thermal cycling, which relevant for applications. characterized via microhardness measurements, optical microscopy scanning electron microscopy. microstructural features are distinguished each condition detailed. study allows construction transformation diagrams after heating. Furthermore, comparison between microstructures in controlled laboratory conditions field White Etching Layers presented. results can serve as guideline future reproduction interpretation conditions.