Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of AISI 430 Ferritic Stainless Steel Strengthened Through Laser Carburization

Abstract Carburization assisted by laser processing is a promising method to strengthen metallic materials. Direct beam carburization implemented for the first time on thin AISI 430 ferritic stainless steel (FSS) sheets with graphite coating under different conditions. Microstructural morphology, phase constitution, carbon content, microhardness, and tensile behavior are investigated evaluate effect. The carburized zone presents morphologies according linear energy density of beam. least content around 0.4 wt% in where austenite becomes leading phase. Delta ferrite found cellular area, which resembles duplex microstructure. hardness has been at increased 130%, yield strength ultimate fully sample can be respectively 90% 85%. This hardening effect driven precipitation carbides formed during solidification offering pinning points dislocations grain boundaries. These improvements could useful modify locally meet industrial needs such as wear-resistant surfaces.