In situ characterization of backstress effects on the austenite-to-bainite phase transformation

An in situ examination of the backstress and postforming effects was carried out in a low-alloy tool steel undergoing an isothermal austenite-to-bainite phase transformation. The findings shed light on the combined role of superimposed stresses and load reduction on the nucleation, selection and growth of bainitic variants throughout the phase transformation.