Phase transformations and induced volume changes in a nitrided ternary Fe–3%Cr–0.345%C alloy

Phase transformations during nitriding of a ternary carbon iron-based alloy Fe–3%Cr–0.345%C were studied, aiming for a better understanding of residual stresses generation and evolution. The relationship between the precipitation of Cr7C3 carbides and CrN nitrides, the induced volume change and the mechanical properties were investigated at three distinct depths of the diffusion zone. The relaxation of residual stresses arose through phase transformations according to the diffusion of nitrogen but also of carbon.