Thermal processing parameters of steel for forged bucket teeth based on thermal processing map
The thermal processing map (TPM) is an important tool for optimizing metal deformation and processing parameters for a wide range of applications. TPMs provide a graphical representation of the microstructure at a given temperature and strain rate. On such TPMs, a single point of process control, as defined by a specific temperature and strain rate, is represented by a single point on the TPM. In addition to this, a microstructural region is also represented on the TPM – this region is determined by the interaction between temperature and strain rate.
When forging bucket teeth, the steel has to undergo a series of deformation and cooling steps in order to obtain the desired form and metallurgical characteristics. The first step consists of hot forging, in which the steel is heated to a certain temperature and then deformed with an appropriate strain rate to achieve the desired form. After forging, the part is cooled down to room temperature and then aged to induce the desired mechanical properties.
To determine the optimum thermal processing parameters for forging bucket teeth, a TPM has to be constructed. This TPM will indicate the ideal temperature and strain rate for the steel used to forge bucket teeth, as well as the desired microstructural region. For example, a typical TPM for forging bucket teeth may look like the following figure (Figure 1).
Thermal Processing Map for Forged Bucket Teeth
As shown in Figure 1, the temperature range corresponding to a given strain rate must be determined first. It is then possible to determine the required deformation temperature and strain rate for forging bucket teeth. For example, at a strain rate of 1 s-1, the deformation temperature should be around 900°C. Similarly, at a strain rate of 10 s-1, the deformation temperature should range from 700-1000°C.
Based on the TPM constructed, other parameters such as cooling rate, austenitizing temperature, and aging process can be determined. For example, to obtain the desired mechanical properties, the cooling rate should be fast enough to obtain a martensitic microstructure at room temperature. The austenitizing temperature should also be determined based on the TPM – typically, this temperature should range from 900-940°C for forging bucket teeth. Finally, the aging process should be optimized to obtain the desired mechanical properties.
In conclusion, a TPM is an essential tool for optimizing the thermal processing parameters of steel used to forge bucket teeth. This TPM can be used to determine the deformation temperature, strain rate, cooling rate, austenitizing temperature, and aging process. The optimized thermal processing parameters should ensure that the bucket teeth have the desired form and mechanical properties.
Conatct us
