Prediction of quenched and tempered steel and cast steel properties

Purpose: The influence of processing parameters, such as pouring temperature and cooling rate during the casting, as well as application of hot working and pre-heat treatment, on strength and toughness of quenched and tempered steel was investigated. Design/methodology/approach: Strength and toughness were presented by yield strength and Charpy-V notch toughness, respectively. Experimental procedure of material properties optimization was done using the 25-2 factor experiment. Findings: It was found out that yield strength is insensitive on differences between applied manufacturing processes, but by application of hot working and with appropriate pouring temperature the Charpy-V notch toughness is increased. Also, Charpy-V notch toughness is increased by interactive effect of the appropriate cooling rate during the casting and application of hot working. Research limitations/implications: The research was focused mainly on Charpy-V notch toughness of carbon and low alloyed heat treatable steels. Practical implications: The established algorithms can be used for prediction of tensile strength, yield strength and Charpy-V notch toughness in heat treating practice. Originality/value: Original relation for prediction of quenched and tempered steel and cast steel Charpy-V notch toughness are developed.