The effect of deep cryogenic treatments on the mechanical properties of an AISI H13 steel

It was concluded that the application of a deep cryogenic treatment to H13 steel induces higher thermal stresses and structural defects, producing a dispersed network of fine carbides after the subsequent tempering stages, which were responsible for a significant improvement in the fracture toughness of this steel without modifying other mechanical properties. Although the application of a deep cryogenic treatment reduces the retained austenite content, there is a minimum innate content which cannot be transformed by heat treatment. Nevertheless, this austenite is hence believed to be stable enough and should not transform during the normal service life of forging dies.