Analysis of continuous cooling transformation of 4Cr13 steel for plastic mold

doi:10.13251/j.issn.0254-6051.2025.02.010

Abstract

Abstract: 4Cr13 steel for plastic mold was prepared by vacuum induction furnace, its phase transition points and continuous cooling transformation (CCT) curve were measured by using a DIL805A quenching thermal dilatometer, and its continuous transformation process was analyzed by combining microstructure observation and hardness test. The results show that the phase transition points of the tested 4Cr13 steel are Ac₁=857 ℃, Ac₃=937 ℃, and there are only pearlite transformation zone and martensite transformation zone on the CCT curve. The 4Cr13 steel has a good hardenability, and the martensitic transformation temperature range is 67-397 ℃.When the cooling rate is 0.01-0.05 ℃/s, the main product of phase transformation of the 4Cr13 steel is pearlite, and the hardness is low, which is 172-193 HV. When the cooling rate is 0.1-1 ℃/s, the microstructure is martensite and retained austenite, and the hardness is increased to 528-688 HV. When the cooling rate is ≥1 ℃/s, the martensitic transformation is completely finished.

Key words: 4Cr13 steel, CCT curve, phase transition point, microstructure, hardness

CLC Number:

TG151.2

Zhao Zhengrong, Zhang Yunfei, Zhao Yingli, Fan Mingqiang, Bai Lijuan, Liu Lijun. Analysis of continuous cooling transformation of 4Cr13 steel for plastic mold[J]. Heat Treatment of Metals, 2025, 50(2): 69-73.

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