Microstructure and Property of 20CrMo Steel with the Process of Rare Earth Element Carburization

Abstract

The microstructures and properties of 20CrMo steel in rare earth catalysis and conventional carburization have been investigated by using the homemade rare earth energizer. The results show that the diffusion rate of carbon increases due to rare earth catalysis, so the time of carburizing decreases by about 30 %, and the martensite microstructures are refined on the surface layer. Also, the amount of residual austenite decreases obviously, and the hardness of the carburized layer is improved about HV150. At the same time, the depth of the hardened layer increased.