Effect of austenization and alloy ratios on mechanical properties of high manganese steels

High manganese steels are used widely and efficiently as abrasion and impact-resistant materials, especially in primary and secondary crusher machines in the mining and cement sectors and similar sectors. However, fractures may occur due to the negative effects that occur on the material depending on the alloy and heat treatment conditions. These fractures cause major damage to business activities, untimely stoppages, and significant economic losses. This study aims to contribute to the information that will enable these steels to complete their working life without any damage under working conditions by conducting the necessary experimental studies depending on the experimental alloying and heat treatment conditions on high manganese steels. Thus, it is aimed at preventing economic losses arising from untimely machine shutdowns as well as maintenance and repair costs arising from machine and crusher damage in enterprises. Within the scope of experimental studies, first, steel specimens containing manganese in the range of 12-14%, 16-18%, and 19-21% were cast in the form of Y-blocks. Afterwards, the cast specimens were heat treated at 1030, 1050, and 1080 °C austenitizing temperatures, and tensile, impact, and wear tests were performed for each specimen to determine the best heat treatment temperature and the best alloy. In addition, the specimens were characterized by SEM-EDS analyses, and metallographic examinations and results consistent with the mechanical test results were obtained. All these studies have revealed that the specimen containing 12-14% manganese is superior in terms of mechanical properties under heat treatment conditions where the austenitizing temperature is selected as 1080 °C. Key Terms: High manganese steel, Heat treatment, Impact resistance, Wear