Effect of Tempering Temperature on Microstructure and Mechanical Behaviour of Medium Carbon Steel.

Student: Emmanuel Onyedikachi Nnadika (Thesis, 2025)
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State

Abstract

This study explores the effect of tempering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical behavior of medium carbon steel. Medium carbon steel, containing 0.3% to 0.6% carbon, undergoes tempering to enhance its mechanical properties by modifying its microstructure. The investigation covers a range of tempering temperatures from 50°C to 400°C. At low tempering temperatures (50°C - 150°C), the microstructure is dominated by tempered martensite with carbide precipitates, resulting in high strength and hardness but limited ductility and toughness. Medium tempering temperatures (150°C-300°C) yield a mixed microstructure of tempered martensite, bainite, and fine carbides, balancing strength and toughness while enhancing ductility. High tempering temperatures (300°C - 400°C) decompose martensite into ferrite and cementite, forming a tempered sorbite structure characterized by lower strength and hardness but significantly improved ductility and toughness. The findings demonstrate that tempering temperature is a critical factor in adjusting the mechanical properties of medium carbon steel, providing insights for optimizing performance in various engineering applications.

Keywords
EFFECT TEMPERING TEMPERATURE MEDIUM CARBON STEEL MICROSTRUCTURE MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR
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