Transition Zone Structure in the Fast-Cutting Surfaced Layer – Substrate System

Using the methods of scanning and transmission electron microscopy, the structural-phase states in the transition zone of a layer of fast-cutting S-2-9-2 steel (European standard) surfaced on 14331 medium-carbon steel (CSN standard) is investigated after tempering and electron-beam treatment. As a result of surfacing, a carbide network structure is formed, while there is no network in the transition zone. A plate-like martensitic structure is observed to form in the transition zone. The carbide phase particles measuring up to tens of nanometers demonstrate different morphology in the transition zone. They localize along the grain boundaries of martensitic crystals and austenitic interlayers and on dislocations in the bulk of the martensitic plates.