Question about Strain-Ageing

[mxracer17788]

Can someone please describe what is happening in steel during the strain aging process? I understand that if I cold work a piece of low carbon steel, it will naturally strain harden on its own at room temperature. If heat is applied, the strain-ageing process is accelerated and embrittlement can occur (like that seen during hot dip galvanizing of cold-worked parts). Physically what is happening during this process. Are carbides being formed? Is it the same aging mechanism as seen in aluminium alloys? I'm lost.

-Jeff

 

[metengr]

Have you performed a Google search on the topic? There are many good articles and papers on strain age embrittlement of carbon and low alloy steels. You really need to research this on your own.