Influence of Austenization with Pulsed Electric Field on a Low-Carbon Steel

Abstract

This paper studied the effects of Austenization with pulsed electric field (PEF) on a low-carbon steel. The results showed that the vol. % lath martensite and Brinell hardness of the specimens quenched with the PEF decreased, especially under the condition of higher frequency, lower voltage, shorter processing time and lower capacity. In addition, the heat treatment with the PEF increased the Ac1 point to a higher temperature as much as 90°C at least and maintained Ac3 point unchangeably. The PEF was able to refine martensite structure.

Keywords

• pef
• low carbon steel
• microstructure
• quenching