The use of thermal analysis techniques for the validation of phase transformation models

Abstract

In the study of the phase transformation of steel several methods can be used to obtain information about the behaviour of steel during heating and cooling. In this research several conventional methods, e.g. dilatometry, were studied together with an in‐situ thermal analysis method (ISTA). This method, which can be applied to any cooling curve, enables us to draw conclusions as to the transformation behaviour of the steel. Using a continuous annealing simulator (Casim) a range of cooling rates can be investigated with the resulting mechanical properties. It will be demonstrated that ISTA can be performed on the results of a variety of experimental techniques and therefore under very different experimental conditions. It is possible to investigate transformation behaviour and mechanical properties on a single test piece. Using the pressurized air cooling of the Casim proves to be a good compromise between the possibilities of determining the mechanical properties and flexibility in cooling conditions of the specimens.