The potential of high-temperature simulation (HTS) is demonstrated through the case of a low-silicon, vacuum-arc-melted and remelted H11 hot-work tool steel. To validate the HTS model, a cylindrical steel sample with a diameter and length of 100 mm (4 inches) was selected due to the efficiency benefits of using a simplified 2D geometry. The simulation was calibrated using time-temperature-transformation (TTT) diagrams and thermal expansion data obtained from dilatometer experiments. Initial validation focused on comparing simulated phase-transformation behavior with actual dilatometer curves, showing good agreement in key areas such as thermal expansion, austenite formation (with carbides), subsequent contraction, and the transformation kinetics of austenite into martensite, bainite, and pearlite. The model does not currently account for the precipitation of proeutectoid carbides.
For more information, click on the link below (subscription required). Then scroll to Figure 16. R Schneider; R. Mesquita; W Schützenhöfer, Distortion in Tool Steels, ASM International, 2014 https://doi.org/10.31399/asm.hb.v04d.a0005980
