Microstructure & Heat treatment

The formation of microstructures associated with solid state phase transformation during cooling or heat treatment can also be simulated with ProCAST using models based on Time-Temperature-Transformation (TTT) or Continuous Cooling- Transformation (CCT) diagrams. Mechanical properties can then be determined from the calculated microstructure.

Originally developed by Rio Tinto Alcan, a heat treatment advisor calculates the mechanical properties (YTS, UTS, E% and HB) in the whole range from T4 through T6 and T7 based on Mg variation and aging parameters for the most commonly poured aluminum A356/357.

Elongation (Al) after T6 Treatment (left image). Elongation (Cast Iron) as cast, Courtesy of Fonderia Casati (right image)

Fractiuon of ferrite as cast (left) and fraction of ausferrite after heat treatment (right) of an ADI whell carrier, courtesy of ACTech