Caracterización metalográfica, evaluación de propiedades mecánicas del acero M303, comparación y sustitución entre los aceros 17-4PH Y AISI 420

Abstract

Currently, the application of stainless steel in industry is increasing due to its features and characteristic properties. These materials are in high demand in the ecuadorian market, but due to their scarcity, the possibility that they can be replaced is being studied. The objective of this Curricular Integration Work was to characterize the metallography, evaluate and compare the mechanical properties of stainless steels M303, 17-4PH, AISI 420, guaranteeing their substitution in the market. Destructive and non-destructive tests were developed. It began with the spectrometry test, with which it was verified that the study steels have a carbon and chromium content within the permissible and characteristic ranges of stainless steels. Micrographs of study steels were obtained and it was identified that the micrographs in the three steels showed martensite and ferrite; a characteristic composition of stainless steel. The analysis of inclusions to the 17-4PH and AISI 420 steels was carried out, observing that the inclusions in the samples of the M303, AISI 420 and 17-4Ph steels are small in size and are not considered as starting points of fatigue, rupture or sudden material failure. Finally, the properties of study steels have the necessary properties to replace the functionality of the M303 steel, which guarantees the replacement of the M303 steel by the AISI 420 and 17-4Ph steels. It can be concluded that 17 – 4Ph steel is the most suitable that meets similar or equal mechanical characteristics to M303. It is recommended to replace M303 steel with 17 – 4Ph steel and perform torsion and fatigue physical tests for future studies.