Relationship of microstructure transformation and hardening behavior of type 17-4 PH stainless steel

The relationship between the microstructure transformation of type 17-4 PH stainless steel and the aging hardening behavior was investigated. The results showed that, when 17-4 PH stainless steel aging at 595°C, the bulk hardness of samples attains its peak value (42.5 HRC) for about 20 min, and then decreases at all time. TEM revealed the microstructure corresponding with peak hardness is that the fine spheroid-shape copper with the fcc crystal structure and the fiber-shape secondary carbide M₂₃C₆ precipitated from the lath martensite matrix. Both precipitations of copper and M₂₃C₆ are the reasons for strengthening of the alloy at this temperature. With the extension of holding time at this temperature, the copper and secondary carbide grow and lose the coherent relationship with the matrix, so the bulk hardness of samples decreases.