Effect of Carbon Content in Steel

In summary, the conversation discusses the effect of carbon content on the mechanical properties of steel. It is noted that carbon content is typically between 0.02% and 1.7%, with higher amounts of carbon making the steel stronger but also more brittle. The conversation also touches on the basic chemistry behind this, mentioning how carbon bonds with iron during production. It is suggested that steels with the same carbon content can have varying properties depending on how the carbon is added and distributed, as well as the presence of other alloying elements. The conversation concludes by mentioning the role of interstitial voids in the properties variation of steel.
  • #1
rofique2
2
0
The effect of carbon content on the Mechanical Properties of Steel?


Am I right in thinking carbon content is normally between 0.02% and 1.7% with more carbon making the steel stronger and more brittle?

I wanted to find out the basic chemistry behind this, Presumably it's to do with the way carbon bonds with the iron during production.

Is it therefore possible for steels of the same carbon content to have differing properties if the carbon is added in different ways?

:confused: Haven't studyed past GCSE Chemistry so no answer will be to simple.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
See this discussion - Carbon hardening agent in Iron and metal alloys
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=153150

It provides answers to some of the questions, and there are links to articles on steels.

Carbon forms carbides with Fe and other alloying elements, e.g. Cr, Nb, Ti, . . . .


Is it therefore possible for steels of the same carbon content to have differing properties if the carbon is added in different ways?
Yes - a lot has to do with the microstructure and distribution of carbon and phases of the Fe-C system, which are affected by thermomechanical treatment, as well as the various alloying elements.
 
  • #3
So much to do with the interstitials voids (mostly carbon interstitials stuck inside the tetrahedral or octahedral voids in BCC or FCC structure) betw the Fe-atoms for properties variation.
 

1. What is the effect of carbon content on the strength of steel?

The higher the carbon content in steel, the stronger and harder it becomes. This is because carbon atoms form strong chemical bonds with iron atoms, resulting in a more rigid and durable material.

2. How does carbon content affect the ductility of steel?

Increasing the carbon content in steel decreases its ductility, meaning it becomes less able to bend or deform without breaking. This is because higher amounts of carbon create more brittleness in the steel, making it more prone to cracking under stress.

3. What is the impact of carbon content on the corrosion resistance of steel?

Higher levels of carbon in steel can decrease its corrosion resistance, as carbon can react with oxygen to form carbon dioxide, leaving the surface vulnerable to rust and other forms of corrosion. However, certain types of steel with higher carbon content, such as stainless steel, have added elements to counteract this effect.

4. How does carbon content affect the weldability of steel?

Generally, higher levels of carbon in steel can make it more difficult to weld. This is because carbon can form hard and brittle areas in the steel, making it more susceptible to cracking during the welding process. Lower carbon content in steel tends to result in better weldability.

5. What are the different types of steel based on carbon content?

Steel can be categorized into three main types based on carbon content: low carbon steel (less than 0.3% carbon), medium carbon steel (0.3-0.6% carbon), and high carbon steel (more than 0.6% carbon). Each type has different properties and uses, with high carbon steel being the strongest and most durable, but also the most brittle.

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