Abstract: As-cast microstructure, precipitated phases and element segregation characteristics of DIEVAR hot working die steel electroslag ingot were analyzed by the means of optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM/EDS), electron probe (EPMA), Thermo-Calc thermodynamic calculation. Then the effect of homogenization heat treatment on the microstructure and carbide and element distribution was studied. The results show that the as-cast dendrite structure of the tested steel is well developed, and the secondary dendrites are obvious. The Cr and Mo and V elements are inter-dendritically enriched, and the segregation order is Mo>V>Cr. The interdendritic precipitated phases are M₂₃C₆, M₆C and MC carbides. With the increase of homogenization temperature and the extension of holding time, the dendrite microstructure gradually becomes fuzzy and even disappears, and the carbide redissolution forms a certain element diffusion zone and gradually diffuses until it is fully redissolved into the matrix, the element diffusion rate is Cr>Mo>V during the homogenization heat treatment. According to dendrite morphology, carbide redissolution, element diffusion and residual segregation index of Mo element after homogenization heat treatment, and considering the actual industrial production cost, the optimal homogenization heat treatment process of the DIEVAR steel is 1280 ℃×8 h.

Key words: DIEVAR hot working die steel, microstructure, segregation, homogenization