Quench and Temper Sequence
Tempering sequence refers to the order of hardening and then high-temperature tempering to get the right strength-toughness balance. Wrong order can cause bad microstructure and shorter service life.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
The heat treatment sequence affects the metal's microstructure. With the correct sequence, the material is processed to achieve an optimal combination of strength and toughness. Wrong sequence can lead to unwanted structures like martensite, which are less tough.
Metallurgical Relevance & Risks in Welding
A wrong heat treatment sequence can lead to increased risk of cracks and distortion. The material is not optimally hardened and loses its toughness, which reduces the service life of components. This can lead to earlier failures, especially in highly stressed applications.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
When welding steels, it is crucial to perform hardening and high-temperature tempering in the correct order. The exact temperature and duration vary depending on material and application. For example: In martensitic steel, first harden the material (hardening process), followed by high-temperature tempering to improve toughness. It is important to follow the specific processes and temperatures in the material's technical specifications.