Microstructural constituent
A microstructure constituent is a visible component of a material under the microscope, such as ferrite or cementite. These determine the mechanical properties.
Physicochemical mechanism of action
A microstructure constituent is a microscopic area in the metal that differs from other areas by its specific structure and chemical composition. These constituents can include various phases such as ferrite, cementite, or austenite.
Metallurgical relevance & risks in welding
The type of microstructure constituents affects the mechanical properties of the metal, such as its hardness, strength, and ductility. Incorrect welding parameters can lead to undesired microstructures, which poses risks for cracking and the service life of the components.
Workshop practice & action instructions
To achieve the desired microstructure, welding parameters such as temperature and time must be precisely controlled. For example, in steels with high carbon content, it is important to control the cooling sequence to avoid or produce martensite, depending on whether hardness or ductility is desired.