Microstructures of Carbon and Alloy Steel: Pearlite, Bainite, and Martensite
The microstructures produced by heat treatment of carbon and alloy steels — pearlite, bainite, martensite, tempered martensite — and how each maps to cooling rate, hardness, and service properties.
Surface Decarburization: Identification, Prevention, and Repair
Surface decarburization in heat-treated steel: how to identify decarb layers by metallography, microhardness traverse, and Rockwell 15N surface testing.
Retained Austenite in Quenched Steel: Effects, Detection, Reduction
Retained austenite in quenched high-carbon and alloy steel: detection by X-ray diffraction per ASTM E975, effects, and reduction via tempering cycles.