Investigation of internal stresses and microstructural evolution in quenched steel components by finite element analysis

Optimal quench uniformity is essential for the minimization of the potential for cracking, distortion, residual stress. Computer simulation of quench processes provides valuable information to avoid quench cracking, to control distortion and to have optimal metallurgical and mechanical properties. In this study, internal and residual stress states together with microstructural evolution in quenched C60 steel cylinders are analyzed numerically. In the numerical analysis, finite element method is applied and both temperature gradients and phase transformations are considered.