Dispersion Strengthening
Dispersion hardening increases strength by introducing fine, non-uniform particles into the metal that block dislocation movement. Unlike low-temperature precipitation hardening, these particles are thermally stable.
Physicochemical mechanism of action
Dispersion hardening occurs when fine, non-uniform particles such as oxides or carbides are embedded in the metal. These particles are thermally stable and block dislocation movements, which increases strength.
Metallurgical relevance & risks in welding
If the content of particles is too high, the material can become so hard that it is prone to cracking. This can be a problem especially in thin workpieces or under high mechanical loads.
Workshop practice & action instructions
To achieve dispersion hardening, welding parameters such as temperature and time should be set so that the metal stays within a critical temperature window. This window varies by material and should be specified in the material's technical data sheet. For thin workpieces, it is especially important to control the cooling time to ensure even hardness distribution.