What are Self Hardening Steels in Welding?

In welding, self hardening steels are those that become martensitic or fully hard by air cooling from above their critical temperature or from the austenitizing temperature. The rate of cooling required to produce a given hardness in the steel depends on both the steel’s composition and its microstructure.

In general, self hardening steels are used for applications requiring high hardness and wear resistance, such as cutting tools and wear-resistant surfaces.

Applications of Self Hardening Steels

They are also used in applications where a hardenable weld is required, such as armor plating. Self hardening steels are typically not used for structural applications because they cannot be heat treated to improve their ductility and toughness.

The most common self-hardening steel is tool steel, which contains high levels of carbon and other alloying elements that promote hardening. Other self-hardening steels include high-speed steel and air-hardening steel.

Can you weld hardened tool steel?

Hardened tool steels can be welded, but it is important to choose the right welding process and filler material. The high hardness of the steel makes it difficult to weld without causing cracking or other problems. In general, the best way to weld hardened tool steel is to use an electron beam welding process with a tungsten electrode.

What is air-hardened steel?

Air hardened steel is a type of self-hardening steel that is cooled in the air after being heated to its austenitizing temperature. This rapid cooling gives the steel a high hardness and wears resistance.