An investigation into martensitic transformation in hot stamping process

Abstract

The main target of the hot stamping process is to get fully martensitic microstructure in the end product. In the current study, the hot stamping process is simulated by the simultaneous forming and quenching experiments. This is done through uniaxial compression tests at high temperatures by a dilatometry machine. The effects of process parameters like strain, strain rate, initial deformation temperature and austenization soaking time and mainly the applied force, on martensitic transformation of the ultra high strength boron steel are investigated. Besides, the presence of other phases like bainite and ferrite and their effects on martensitic transformation is considered. It is concluded that by increasing strain rate and initial deformation temperature, martensite content, hardness and martensite start temperature (Ms) are increased. On the contrary, by applying higher deformations, the above mentioned properties are decreased. It is also concluded that, regardless of the process parameters, higher applied forces deteriorate the successful martensitic transformation during the hot stamping process.