← Glossary

Martensitic microstructure

Martensite is a strong, glass-hard structure formed by rapid cooling. It is very hard and tough, but also crack-prone.

Physicochemical Mechanism of Action

Martensite forms from austenite on fast cooling. The rapid cooling prevents the crystal lattice from transforming fully, so it stays distorted in a tetragonal form.

Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks

Martensite is very hard and brittle, which reduces its toughness. The high internal stress makes the structure prone to cracking. With wrong cooling the material can turn hard and brittle, which can lead to cracks.

Workshop Practice & Instructions

To avoid martensite, controlled cooling is essential. The cooling should be set so the weld cools slowly and evenly. A typical target is a t8/5 value between 10 and 20 seconds to get a balanced structure.

MetallurgieSchweißtechnik

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