Liquid Metal Embrittlement of 4145 Steel by Lead-Tin and Lead-Antimony Alloys

Abstract

Abstract Pure lead soldered to the gage section of 200-ksi (1379-MPa) 4145 steel tensile specimens tested at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 700°F (371°C) exhibit a severe loss in ductility between 400 and 680°F (204 and 360°C). The ductility, as measured by reduction of area, recovered at 695°F (368°C), the so-called brittle-to-ductile recovery temperature. This recovery temperature was shifted to higher temperatures in a sensitive manner by relatively small amounts of either tin or antimony added to alloy the externally applied lead.