Effect of carbon and phosphorus addition on sintered density and effect of carbon removal on mechanical properties of high density sintered steel

This paper provides data on the effect of carbon and phosphorus levels on the density of liquid phase sintered steel and the impact of subsequent carbon removal on the mechanical properties. After sintering die pressed samples composed of liquid forming additives and coarse water atomised powder at 1250°C or below, followed by postsintering decarburisation, densities of >95% relative density and non-brittle microstructures are achieved. Tensile testing shows the important effect of the microstructure on the mechanical properties. Ductility is improved by the post-sintering decarburisation, corresponding to elongation to fracture of 12% for certain compositions. Apparent diffusion coefficients for carbon were also estimated.