Modeling the evolution of microstructure during the processing of maraging steels

The main theme of the research described in this article was to develop computer-based models to predict microstructural evolution and precipitation-hardening kinetics during the processing of maraging steels. The prediction made by the computer-based models, when compared with experimental observations and characterization, proved to be within useful accuracy. The research outputs cover the topics of characterization of precipitates, quantification of precipitate fraction, calculation of thermodynamics and kinetics of phase transformations, and modeling of precipitation hardening. A heat-treatment procedure was also developed to improve the toughness of a commercial precipitation-hardening grade, and the design of the chemistry and processing route of low-cost maraging grades was attempted.