The Reliability of Single-Step and Double-Step Quench and Partitioning Heat Treatments on an AISI 420A Low Carbon Martensitic Stainless Steel

Abstract The microstructural and mechanical effects of various single-step (SS) double-step (DS) quench partition (Q&P) heat treatments applied to an AISI 420A low carbon martensitic stainless steel (MSS) has been studied. goal with this work is reach a total elongation ( E pct) 12 pct ultimate tensile strength (UTS) above 1200/1300 MPa, but ultimately achieve superior strength-ductility balance in comparison its traditional Quench Temper (Q&T) counterpart. This being done by retaining austenite within the steel’s matrix at room temperature (RT) using novel SS conventional DS Q&P treatments. Considerable optimize treatments, little understand removing subsequent heating cycle through on MSSs. With that said, partitioning performed same interruption for reheated higher Experimental investigations were carried out 1 mm thick, sheet samples increase number potential applications treatment. microstructure different was investigated X-ray diffraction (XRD) transmission electron microscopy (TEM) while property fracture toughness testing. treated quenched 130 °C partitioned industrially relevant times 10 30 minutes featured highest values terms elongation, toughness. other hand, able improved properties Q&T Overall, opens up possibility increased MSS usage reliable, thin-walled component production treatment methods. best results achieved study are UTS 1585 22 pct, 77 kJ/m 2 . Their lower 9.6 balanced high 1812 ensuring compared samples.