Structure of steel G13L with silicon

Conclusions

• 1. Silicon raises the temperature at which carbide is formed in manganese austenitic steels.

• 2. Silicon changes the microstructure obtained after tempering. Raising the silicon content of steel G13L changes the microstructure from acicular to globular.

• 3. Silicon inhibits the γ→α transformation. The initial decomposition temperature of austenite increases with the silicon content, which affects the mechanical properties of austenitic steel. The beginning of the γ→α transformation can be determined from the change in magnetic properties, especially the apparent residual magnetic induction.

The experimental data confirm the recommendations in the literature that the silicon content of steel G13L be caised to 0.8–1.0%, which increases the wear resistance.