Austempered Ductile Iron—Processing and Properties

Abstract

Recent research on austempered ductile irons (ADI) has been reviewed. The physical metallurgy of the austempering reaction and the important effects of alloying elements are discussed, along with an analysis of research results from the perspectives of ADI foundry and heat treatment process control and quality assurance. Both the existing database of ADI mechanical properties and progress made toward the specification of various ADI grades worldwide have been summarised. Although many fundamental questions remain regarding microstructure/property/processing relationships for the new and metallurgically complex family of ADI materials, foundry processing and heat treatment guidelines have been established for the successful production of ADI. Casting quality requirements are high due to the demanding combination of strength and toughness desired for ADI and to ensure consistent heat-treatment response during austempering.