A study on nanoscale gradient alloying induced by a punching deformation process on low carbon steel

Abstract The gradient alloying surface produced on a low-carbon steel material by a punching deformation and recovery process is investigated using scanning electron microscopy, energy disperse spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The mechanical properties of the gradient alloying surface are studied using nanoindentation and microhardness testers. The surface layer is observed to contain a (Fe,Cr) 7 C 3 phase. There is also a decrease in Cr content as grain size increases from the top surface to the matrix. These results can be attributed to defects in the microstructure induced by the punching deformation process, which promote diffusion of Cr in the matrix. The gradient alloying surface also exhibited increased hardness due to the grain refining process, the Cr solution used and the presence of the hard (Fe,Cr) 7 C 3 phase.