Temperature Gradient-Induced Microstructural Evolution and Wear Resistance Enhancement in High-Manganese Steels by...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Engineering
• Metallurgy

Background:

• High-manganese steel (HMS) has poor initial hardness, limiting wear resistance.
• Conventional surface hardening is costly, energy-intensive, and yields shallow layers.
• Understanding laser transformation hardening in HMS is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To improve the surface hardness and wear resistance of Mn13 high-manganese steel.
• To investigate laser transformation hardening for HMS surface modification.
• To analyze the effects of laser parameters on microstructure and properties.

Main Methods:

• Employing a high-energy-density laser for surface treatment of Mn13 steel.
• Optimizing laser power to achieve a gradient microstructure.
• Analyzing microhardness, microstructure, and wear behavior.

Main Results:

• A gradient microstructure was achieved with optimized laser power.
• Surface microhardness significantly improved due to grain refinement and dislocations.
• Wear resistance increased, with a shift from adhesive to abrasive wear.
• Impact toughness was preserved due to the gradient transition.

Conclusions:

• Laser transformation hardening is effective for enhancing HMS surface properties.
• The gradient microstructure is key to balancing hardness, wear resistance, and toughness.
• This method offers a precise and efficient alternative for HMS surface modification.