Relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties of iron-1.8 chromium PM materials

Lean sintered steels can be defined as low alloyed steels with a content of alloying elements <3 wt.-%. Chromium is widely used as an alloying element in low alloyed wrought steels, since it gives good mechanical properties at a low cost. Chromium as alloying element in PM steel is of great interest because of the positive effect on hardenability of PM parts and recyclability of the scrap. However, the use of chromium in low alloyed powder metallurgy steels is very limited. The reason is that chromium has a high affinity to oxygen, which makes the materials sensitive for oxidation during the sintering process.