Habit plane
The habit plane is a crystal plane in the parent lattice where phases preferentially grow or precipitate. It minimizes elastic stresses and influences the microstructure.
Physicochemical mechanism of action
The habit plane is a special crystal plane in the parent lattice where newly forming phases preferentially grow or precipitate. This plane has a specific orientation that minimizes elastic stresses in the lattice and influences grain growth.
Metallurgical relevance & risks during welding
The habit plane plays a crucial role in controlling the microstructure and mechanical properties of the material. If mishandled during welding, the orientation of this plane can be disturbed, leading to uneven grain size and increased stress. This can increase the risk of cracks and hardness problems.
Workshop practice & instructions for use
To maintain the habit plane correctly, it is important to precisely follow welding parameters such as temperature and time. For steels with special microstructure requirements, controlled cooling may be necessary to achieve the desired habit plane. Exact values vary by material and material class.