Effects of alloying elements with various heat treatment processes on the properties of high speed steels

In this study, effects of alloying elements and different heat treatment processes on the properties of DIN 1.3243, DIN 1.3343 and ASP 2052 were investigated. Austenitizing and tempering temperatures are critical parameters for the hardening of steels. Also, alloying elements have critical effect on microstructure and mechanical properties of steels. Various austenitizing temperatures with two tempering temperatures were implemented to samples. Effects of alloying elements, process parameters on the mechanical properties and tooling abilities of the specimens were investigated. Rockwell hardness tests were carried out on specimens, and their tooling abilities were characterized by the number of screws that were fabricated with specimens. According to the results of experiments, higher hardness values were obtained for elevated austenitizing temperatures. Besides, higher hardness values were obtained due to presence of alloying elements and formation of secondary carbides during tempering process. Moreover, tooling ability of the specimens increased with higher hardness values and formation of alloy carbides. Hot work properties of specimens were evolved by Co. K e y w o r d s: high speed steels, hardness test, hardening, tempering