Plastic Deformation Work
Plastic deformation work is the energy irreversibly converted into shape change and heat during deformation of a material. It indicates the resistance of the metal lattice to dislocation movement.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
The plastic deformation work occurs when the material is distorted under external forces. Atoms in the crystal lattice shift and take new positions. This process is irreversible and leads to a change in shape of the material and the absorption of energy in the form of heat.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
During hardness testing or tensile loading, the plastic deformation work can increase resistance to dislocation movement, which increases the strength of the material. However, too much plastic deformation work can also overload the metal and cause cracks or fractures.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
To optimally control plastic deformation work in welding, it is important to carefully regulate the deformation stress and cooling of the material. For high-strength steels, a slow cooling method should be used to avoid cracks. With softer materials, faster cooling can be beneficial to limit distortion.