Metallurgical analysis of the causes of failure of the hardening furnace conveyor belt

Purpose: The aim of the tests was to analyze the microstructure and mechanical properties of a section of the hardening furnace conveyor belt serviced at the temperature of 880-920°C in the carburizing atmosphere, in the context of determining the probable causes of its failure. Design/methodology/approach: The scope of performed tests included: chemical composition analysis of the steel and particles, microstructure investigated using optical and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray phase analysis. Findings: The analysis of the chemical composition showed that the examined material was austenitic steel X15CrNiSi25-21 (S310). Performed metallurgical tests showed that after the service the examined steel was characterized by austenitic structure with numerous precipitates of diverse morphology. In the structure the sigma phase particles and probably the M23C6 carbides precipitates were observed. The continuous grid of precipitates on the boundaries of grains (mainly the sigma phase) and the influence of the cyclic changing heat loads (or thermo-mechanical loads) were the main causes of failure of the analysed detail. Research limitations/implications: The aim of the work was to determine the probable causes of damage of the material used for a conveyor belt of a hardening furnace. Practical implications: The results of investigation and analysis of the metallographic of het-resisting austenitic steel X15CrNiSi25-21 (S310) after service at the temperature of 880-920°C are presented. Originality/value: The paper presents the results of research on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the section of hardening furnace conveyor belt made of creepresisting austenitic steel. The aim of the performed tests was to determine the probable causes of damage of the analysed detail.