Abstract
A new method is developed for measuring elastic relaxation. The samples are in the form of spirals, which are twisted through a certain angle and then released. The course of creep is registered photographically, and thus the magnitude of the elastic after-effect is found. The method is applied to the determination of the solubility of carbon in α-iron. The specimens are made so large that the carbon in solution can be determined directly by weighing, which is a considerable advantage of the method. First, the relation between carbon content and after-effect was determined. Supersaturated samples were then quenched from different temperatures, and thus the solubility limit was obtained between 400 and 700°C. The results deviate both from earlier investigations using the torsional pendulum method, and also considerably from the results obtained by calorimetric methods. The latter need correction, partly because of the recently discovered precipitation of Fe 2C at lower temperatures. The equilibrium between this carbide and carbon in solution is also discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
