Effect of tempering on the microstructure, electrical, and magnetic properties of Eurofer-97 steel ☆

Abstract Reduced-activation ferritic–martensitic Eurofer-97 steel is a potential candidate for structural application in future nuclear fusion reactors. Samples of Eurofer-97 steel were cold rolled to 80% reduction in thickness, austenitized at 1050 and 1150 °C for 30 min and tempered at several temperatures up to 800 °C for 2 h each. The microstructural characterization of the samples was performed using Vickers microhardness testing and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Electrical resistivity and coercive field measurements were also performed to follow microstructural changes during isothermal tempering. Results were discussed with focus on the precipitation of MX and M 23 C 6 carbides and related changes in these properties.