440C is a high-carbon martensitic stainless steel known for its excellent hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. It is commonly used in applications such as bearings, cutting tools, and other high-performance components.
Carbon Content and Hardness
440C stainless steel typically contains between 0.95% and 1.20% carbon. This high carbon content allows it to form a hard martensitic structure during heat treatment, which gives the steel its exceptional hardness. In the annealed state, 440C typically has a Brinell Hardness (BHN) of 190-250 and a Rockwell B (HRB) hardness of 95-100.
Heat Treatment and Hardness
When 440C stainless steel is properly heat-treated (quenched and tempered), it can achieve a Rockwell C (HRC) hardness of 58-60. This makes it one of the hardest stainless steels available, suitable for applications where both high hardness and corrosion resistance are required.
Factors Affecting Hardness
- Carbon content: The higher the carbon content, the greater the hardness, but it can also make the steel more brittle.
- Heat treatment: Proper quenching and tempering are essential to achieving the desired hardness.
- Grain structure: The martensitic microstructure provides excellent wear resistance and hardness but limits ductility.
Hardness in Applications
440C stainless steel is used in demanding applications that require both high hardness and resistance to wear and corrosion. Common uses include bearings, surgical instruments, and knife blades, where high hardness and wear resistance are crucial.
Haruto say:
記事は非常に役立ちました。
12 / 06 /2024 20:22