Phase Transformations and Crack Initiation in a High-Chromium Cast Steel Under Hot Compression Tests

Abstract

The mechanical behavior of the fully austenitic matrix of high-chromium cast steel (HCCS) alloy is determined by external compression stress applied at 300 and 700 °C. The microstructure is roughly characterized toward both optical and scanning electron microscopy analyses. Dilatometry is used during heating from room temperature up to austenitization to study the solid-state phase transformations, precipitation, and dissolution reactions. Two various strengthening phenomena (precipitation hardening and stress-induced bainite transformation) and one softening mechanism (dynamic recovery) are highlighted from compression tests. The influence of the temperature and the carbide type on the mechanical behavior of the HCCS material is also enhanced. Cracks observed on grain boundary primary carbides allow establishing a rough damage model. The crack initiation within the HCCS alloy is strongly dependent on the temperature, the externally applied stress, and the matrix strength and composition.