Austenite stabilizing factor
Austenite stabilization factor influences transformation temperatures and maintains the face-centered cubic crystal structure. It is increased by alloying elements such as nickel or manganese.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
Alloying elements like nickel or manganese bind oxygen and reduce the transformation temperatures of the steel. This prevents the metal from transforming into martensite.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
An excessively high austenite stabilization factor can lead to an overly high transformation temperature. This increases the risk of hot cracking and coarsens the grain, which impairs the toughness of the steel.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
Use alloys with a low austenite stabilization factor for weld joints under high temperatures. At low temperatures, a slightly increased factor can lower the transformation temperature and stabilize the structure.