← Glossary
Pearlite decomposition
The dissolution of the lamellar ferrite-cementite arrangement during long-term annealing above the eutectoid temperature into globular microstructures.
Perlite decomposition happens when you hold the steel too long in the critical range during annealing or by applying too much heat. The lamellar structure of ferrite and cementite then clumps together into grains – this is called spheroidizing. The result: the steel becomes softer and tougher, but loses hardness and strength.
MetallurgieSchweißtechnik