Microstructure of High Cr-Alloyed Sintered Steel – Prediction and Analysis

Study of microstructure of high Cr-alloyed sintered austenitic stainless steel was performed in few stages – XPS analysis of powder surface, theoretical prediction of microstructure by Thermo-Calc and JMatPro software and metallographic observation of sintered material. XPS analysis showed presence of thin iron oxide layer on the surface of powder particles and oxide „islands“ formed by Si, Mn and Cr. Theoretical prediction made by Thermo-Calc and JMatPro calculations showed presence of austenite with chromium carbides and carbonitrides in equilibrium state. Both predictions are in good agreement. Metallographic observation of sintered material showed that microstructure contains small austenitic grains with size of 3-5 μm with fine carbides (1-2 μm) and carbonitrides distributed mostly on grain boundaries. Metallographic study of material confirmed theoretical predictions.