The Effects of Post-Sintering Treatments on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Mn-Mo Steel

The effect of heat treatment on density, hardness, microstructure and tensile properties of Fe-0.85Mo-1.3Mn-0.6C sintered steel were investigated. Pre-alloyed Astaloy 85Mo, ferromanganese and UF4 graphite powders were mixed for 60 minutes in a Turbula mixer and then pressed in single-action die at 660MPa to produce green compacts (according to PN EN ISO 2740).The compacts were sintered in a specially designed semi-closed container at 1120 or 1250°C for 60 minutes in N₂. The chemical composition of the sintering atmosphere was modified by adding getter and/or activator into the container. Two different types of heat treatment in nitrogen were carried out: sinteraustempering at 525°C for 60 minutes; and sinterhardening with additional tempering at 200°C for 60 minutes. The slightly better combination of strength and plasticity of steel for both sintering temperatures were achieved after sinterhardening+tempering variant. Average values of 0.2% offset yield stress, ultimate tensile strength and elongation after sintering in 1250°C, were 415MPa, 700MPa, and 2.0%, respectively.