Strain-induced formation of a gradient nanostructured surface layer on an ultrahigh strength bearing steel

In the present work, an ultrahigh strength bearing steel (AISI 52100) was subjected to surface mechanical rolling treatment (SMRT) at room temperature. Microstructural observations showed that martensitic laths, twins and cementite particles in the initial microstructure underwent distinct plastic strains and were gradually refined into nanostructures. Consequently, a gradient nanostructured (GNS) surface layer with a mean grain size of ∼24 nm at the top surface was obtained on the bearing steel, resulting in an increment of ∼20% in the surface hardness. Analyses based on microstructural evolution, phase constitution and in-depth hardness distribution revealed a mechanically induced formation mechanism of the GNS surface layer. The multiple surface severe plastic deformation under fine lubrication and cooling during SMRT contributed to the formation of a thick hardened surface layer on the bearing steel.