Changes in the Microstructure and Microhardness of 65g Steel After Thermal Hardening and Surfacing With a Low-Carbon Electrode

Abstract

When reinforcing the surfaces of the working bodies of tillage tools, they are surfaced with electrodes with a low-carbon rod. The surface in contact with the soil is not subjected to heat treatment. Recently, thermal hardening of local parts has been used. (Research purpose) The research purpose is in studying the transformation of the microstructure of 65G heat-strengthened steel deposited by an electrode with a low-carbon rod, as well as the specifics of the microhardness distribution in this section. (Materials and methods) Investigated in the cross-section of the structure of the deposited area by the standard method, consisting in the preparation of microsections, etching and directly microanalysis. (Results and discussion) The transformation of the microstructure of heat-strengthened steel 65G deposited by an electrode with a low-carbon rod is complex due to the specificity and versatility of the phase transformations that occur during its formation. The microhardness distribution plot in the cross-section of the surfacing area has a complex configuration, determined by the variety of structural components, the presence of deformation processes during crystallization and solidification, and the presence of preliminary thermal hardening of the base metal. (Conclusions) Increased values of the hardness of individual areas contribute to an increase in the abrasive wear resistance of the part. The presence of the fusion zone ensures the resistance of the deposited area to cracking. The zone of thermal influence has four clearly distinguishable areas: the drop in microhardness; the stable values according to the Vickers method; the near-shock zone; the fusion zone. The microhardness of the weld surface of the cushion is 410 Vickers or 42 Rockwell, which creates conditions for increasing the wear resistance of the surface friction. The use of electrodes with a low-carbon rod is advisable when conducting surfacing reinforcement of heat-strengthened steels.