Parameters Controlling the Oxide Reduction during Sintering of Chromium Prealloyed Steel

Temperature intervals of oxide reduction processes during sintering of the Fe-3%Cr-0.5%Mo prealloyed powder using continuous monitoring of processing-exhaust gas composition (CO, CO2, and H2O) were identified and interpreted in relation to density (6.5–7.4 g/cm3), sintering temperature (1120 and 1200°C), heating and cooling rates (10 and 50°C/min), carbon addition (0.5/0.6/0.8%), type (10%H2-N2, N2), and purity (5.0 and 6.0) of the sintering atmosphere. The progress in reduction processes was evaluated by oxygen and carbon contents in sintered material and fracture strength values as well. Higher sintering temperature (1200°C) and density