Microstructure of Laser Hardened Martensitic High Nitrogen Steel Subsurfaces

Abstract Martensitic high nitrogen steel (MHNS) offers an excellent combination of mechanical, chemical and tribological properties. Nitrogen is an alloying element responsible for higher corrosion resistance [1]. The investigated material X30CrMoN15-1 was in tempered conditions in order to get sufficient toughness. Afterwards the surface was laser hardened thus the material gains increase of hardness and partly dissolution of precipitates. To improve the corrosion and wear resistance the wear test in artificial see water was performed. The surface and subsurface was analysed as to the type of phase changes during the laser heat treatment comparing to the initial state of the material. The investigation was performed using transmission electron microscope (TEM).