Heat treatment cycle optimization for A707L5 copper-nickel steel

The mechanical properties of the A707L5 steel grade were studied as a function of the applied aging temperature. The results obtained are discussed on the basis of the microstructure analysis and precipitates were identified on the fracture surfaces observed by scanning electron microscopy assisted by a field emission gun (FEG-SEM). This steel grade appears to be particularly sensitive to the aging time-temperature, which significantly affected the precipitation phenomena. The annealing temperature and solution quenching involved in the thermal cycle significantly affect the perlite formation, the grain size and the ?-Cu precipitates that represent the main factors of influence ruling the mechanical properties.