Microstructural characterization and mechanical properties of microalloyed powder metallurgy steels

• Ti microalloyed steels can be produced by PM technology.
• The addition of Ti increases the strength of steel through precipitation hardening or solid solution strengthening.
• Quasi-cleavage of the matrix is the dominant fracture mode in the microalloyed PM steel.

The effects of Ti additions on the microstructures and mechanical properties of microalloyed powder metallurgy (PM) steels were investigated. The microstructure of the microalloyed PM steels was characterized with the help of optic microscope, SEM and EDS. Experimental results showed that Ti microalloyed steels can be produced by PM technology. The addition of Ti increases the strength in the sintered conditions. In addition, Ti limits grain growth during austenitization prior to cooling. By limiting austenite grain growth, the precipitates result in significant improvement in strength.