Lattice defect
Lattice defects are deviations from the ideal crystal structure, such as vacancies or dislocations. They affect mechanical strength and behavior under stress.
Physical-chemical mechanism of action
Lattice defects are deviations from the ideal periodic crystal structure in metals. These can occur as vacancies (gaps in the lattice) or dislocations (displacement of atoms within the lattice). The presence of lattice defects affects the mechanical properties of the material, as they provide sites where stresses can concentrate.
Metallurgical relevance & risks in welding
Lattice defects can arise from various processes, such as welding, hardening, or forming. They impair mechanical strength and behavior under stress by serving as nucleation points for cracks. An increased number of lattice defects can lead to reduced toughness and an increased risk of hot cracking.
Workshop practice & instructions
To minimize the occurrence of lattice defects, it is important to carefully adhere to welding parameters such as temperature and time. When hardening steels, a correct hardening method should be applied to obtain a homogeneous crystal structure. During forming, high stresses should be built up slowly and released in a controlled manner to avoid the formation of lattice defects.