Análise dos efeitos do Clay Tempering na microestrutura e propriedades mecânicas do aço SAE 5160: Uma aplicação da técnica de têmpera seletiva das espadas japonesas

Abstract

The present work addresses the use of the Clay Tempering technique in SAE 5160 steel, observing its effects on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the selected samples. The technique is based on reducing heat transfer through the application of a clay layer on the metal surface, which leads to the formation of distinct microstructures and enables more advantageous combinations of properties for its application. Traditionally used in the manufacturing of Japanese swords, studying this method provides a deeper understanding of materials engineering technologies that have been used for centuries, while also expanding their potential applications. Throughout this work, the effects of conventional quenching and Clay Tempering treatments were analyzed, as well as comparing them to samples in the normalized condition (as received). Characterization techniques such as metallography, microhardness testing, and flexural testing allowed clear distinctions to be observed between the method and conventional quenching, including lower hardness and greater ductility, despite the formation of similar martensitic microstructures. The differences in properties were attributed to the reduced cooling rate caused by the clay layer. Finally, it is concluded that the method proved effective in balancing the properties of SAE 5160 steel, although a larger number of samples would be beneficial to support more definitive conclusions regarding the results obtained.