Characterisation and Simulation of Precipitation Processes in novel Tool Steels (MCL SP16)

Tool steels are extremely complex alloys systems that owe their particular properties to their favorable precipitate microstructure. A number of different carbonitrides as well as intermetallic compounds form during heat treatment of these materials. Aim of this project is to develop computer models that are capable of predicting the evolution of the various different precipitates and to predict the size and distribution of the precipitates as a function of the process parameters. The modelling is accompanied by an extensive experimental program the involves latest experimental techniques such as Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) and atom probe.