Microstructure Control of a Low Carbon Martensitic Stainless Steel by Quenching and Partitioning Heat Treatment
Quenching and partitioning (Q&P) treatment was applied to a commercial low carbon martensitic stainless steel, AISI Type 410 (Fe-12Cr-0.1C). The condition of partial quenching and partitioning was optimized with consideration of the untransformed austenite fraction and stability of austenite (carbon concentration in solid solution). As a result, the amount of retained austenite could be increased up to approximately 15 vol%. Tensile testing revealed that the specimens after Q&P heat treatment exhibited lower yield stress and larger work hardening rate compared with quench-and-tempered (Q&T) specimens under the same tensile strength level, resulting in a significantly better strength-ductility balance. It was confirmed that the TRIP effect had contributed to the mechanical property.