The Effect of Soaking on Segregation and Primary-Carbide Dissolution in Ingot-Cast Bearing Steel

In this work, segregation in the cast and hot worked structure, as well as the effects of soaking on macro and micro segregation, in hypereutectoid bearing steel produced by ingot casting were studied. Samples were selected from ingots that where either as cast or soaked for twenty hours. Two similar bearing steel grades were used for this investigation. For the as cast ingot, samples were selected from both A-segregation channel regions and the matrix region. Samples were also selected from hot-worked bars originating from ingots that had been soaked for four hours or twenty hours. Micro and macro examinations of the microstructures were conducted and compared. In addition, a segregation analysis of the substitutional solute elements was performed using EDX equipment mounted on a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). EMPA mapping of the composition pattern in the bulk, as well as the carbides, was conducted. Precipitation of M3C, M2C, and M6C was observed. The carbides at A-segregation channels were found to have a different morphology to those precipitated in the bulk matrix. After soaking at 1200 degrees C for 4 h, all the primary carbides are dissolved.