Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steel by PM HIP
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea KIMAB AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 300 000 |
| Project duration | November 2013 - July 2014 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
Production of components by the powder metallurgical route has many advantages, but there are limitations in the material types that can be produced by PM HIP, in large part due to lack in understanding of the effect on material properties. In this pre-study the possibilities to produce precipitation hardened stainless steel by PM-HIP have been evaluated.
Results and expected effects
Comparison between a PM-HIP produced material and conventionally produced steel (by casting and forging) has shown that there are good possibilities to produce precipitation hardened stainless steel by PM-HIP. The pre-study has identified the further developments that are needed, the market potential, and that there is an interest in Swedish industry to implement the results of the research.
Approach and implementation
A comparison of the microstructure and properties of a PM HIP produced and a conventionally produced precipitation hardened stainless steel has been made. A commercially available powder was used. There is a large change in the microstructure when the production method is changed that is complex to analyse, and important to understand. The results of the pre-study are interesting and show potential for the PM-HIP steel, and further work is planned.