Quenching process of wear-resistant steel based on temperature-structure-stress three-field coupling

In the face of high-intensity mechanical loads, wear-resistant steel faces the issues of low toughness and chipping. Respectively, the wear-resistant steel material can not meet the requirements of mechanical properties for operating conditions. Thus, in order to solve this problem, quenching process of wear-resistant steel based on temperature-structure-stress coupling is used. During this process, proper quenching heat treatment can be used to in order to improve the wear-resistance of materials, especially ensuring the combination of high wear resistance and good toughness.
    
The schematic of the quenching process of wear-resistant steel based on temperature-structure-stress coupling is shown.
     
The main process consists of three stages. The first step is conducted under controlled temperatures ranging from room temperature to a high temperature of 1300°C. As the temperature is gradually increasing, the crystal grains in the steel microstructure are damaged and the grain boundaries deform to a larger size. Meanwhile, a large number of dislocations move to enhance the cross-slip and the recovery process in the material. Moreover, the red heat of the material can improve the plasticity, making the deformation more uniform.
    
The second step is done at a lower temperature of 800-900°C. During this stage, the dislocation density at the material is maintained at a high level. While the structure undergoes plastic deformation, the transformation of Martensite is undergoing in the material. This leads to an increasing hardness and wear resistance. In addition, due to the presence of carbides, the wear resistant of the material is further enhanced.
    
Finally, in the third step, a tempering process is conducted at 300-400°C, which is aimed at relieving the residual stress and enhancing the toughness of the material. In addition, the material grain structure is optimized through the process and grain boundaries are smoothed.
    
Due to the coupling of temperature, structure, and stress field, the quenching process of wear-resistant steel gains many advantages. The material has perfect combination of wear resistance, strength and plasticity. Furthermore, the quenching process can be adjusted to meet particular requirements. However, it is important to note that if the process parameters are not properly controlled, it could result in severe cracking and other deformations in the material.
    
Therefore, while producing the wear-resistant steel, it is important to strictly controls the corresponding parameters, such as holding time and cooling rate. Such control will ensure that the material meets the required performance. In addition, it is also necessary to improve the detection methods and to carry out relevant research on the coupling of temperature, structure and stress field during the quenching process to optimize the performance of wear-resistant steel.

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