Effect of the size of martensite laths and carbide particles on the “brittle” strength of low-carbon martensitic steels

Results of experimental and theoretical studies of the effect of the size of martensite laths and carbide particles on the value of the minimum stress of brittle fracture (brittle strength) of steel 12KhN3MFA subjected to uniaxial extension are presented. The critical proportion of the sizes of carbide particles and martensite laths is determined at which the microstructural component that controls the level of the brittle strength changes. Quantitative dependences for predicting the effect of the nonuniformity of the grain structure on the brittle strength of martensitic steels are obtained. Parameters of the microstructure, which make it possible to raise the brittle strength of low-carbon martensitic steels, are determined and the efficiency of rapid heat treatment for creating such structural states is demonstrated.