 BÖHLER continues to lead the way in innovation. BÖHLER manufactures powder metal steel using 3rd generation Powder Metallurgy. Our 3rd generation P/M offers a finer carbide distribution than 2nd generation P/M. Our 3rd generation MICROCLEAN® Powder Metal is far superior to any other powder metal on the market today.
The Process
The demand for high-performance tool steels has grown dramatically. Steel grades with high temperature strength, high wear resistance and good toughness properties are necessary for today's applications. Powder Metallurgy (P/M) is the process by which steel is being made to meet these needs. The Bohler manufacturing process is what gives our P/M grades their high-performance characteristics.
With traditionally melted tool steels, molten metal is poured into molds and the resulting ingots are forged, rolled into bars and then annealed. Due to the conditions during the solidification of the ingot, carbide networks are formed. These networks are broken down during hot working to form carbide stringers, particularly in the transverse direction. This is more noticeable in high carbon, high chromium and high speed steels. This macro-segregation can result in large carbide particles and can adversely affect the mechanical properties of the steel, especially in the transverse direction. The carbide-influenced abrasive wear resistance also results in decreased ductility.
Powder Metallurgy (P/M) is the process by which macro-segregation free ingots of high alloy steels can be produced. The P/M process produces tiny solidified droplets, which, after hot isostatic pressing in a capsule, provide an ingot ready for hot working into fully wrought bar products.
In P/M steels, very small and hard alloy carbides greatly increase the wear resistance, and at the same time the ductility, in all directions. This is in contrast to conventionally produced steel where increased ductility can only be gained at the expense of reduced wear resistance or hardness.
BÖHLER continues to develop new grades within its extensive line of powder metallurgical P/M steels sold under the trade name MICROCLEAN®. These MICROCLEAN® P/M steels combine the optimum combination of high temperature strength, wear resistance and toughness properties.
BÖHLER continues to lead the way in innovation and is the only manufacturer providing 3rd generation Powder Metallurgy. 3rd generation P/M offers a finer carbide distribution than 2nd generation P/M. Our 3rd generation MICROCLEAN® Powder Metal is far superior to any other powder metal on the market today.
|
Download