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The head of a steel axe is annealed, normalised, and tempered during manufacture - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question 3 - 2022
Question 3
The head of a steel axe is annealed, normalised, and tempered during manufacture. Describe any two of the following processes: (i) Annealing; (ii) Normalising; (ii... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The head of a steel axe is annealed, normalised, and tempered during manufacture - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question 3 - 2022
Step 1
Annealing
Answer
Annealing is a heat treatment process used to soften metals. To anneal steel, it is heated to a cherry red colour, approximately 900°C, and allowed to cool down slowly. This process can be achieved by leaving the metal in a furnace while the furnace is allowed to cool down. Annealing relieves internal stresses, increases ductility, and improves the malleability of the metal.
Step 2
Normalising
Answer
Normalising is a heat treatment process that modifies the microstructure of the steel to make it more ductile and tough. It involves heating the steel to a temperature between 830°C and 950°C and then allowing it to cool in air. This heating and slow cooling alters the microstructure, thereby enhancing its mechanical properties.
Step 3
Step 4
Carbon content
Answer
The carbon content in steel greatly influences its properties. Low carbon steel typically contains less than 0.03% of carbon, while medium carbon steel contains between 0.03% and 0.06%. Higher carbon contents yield harder steel, impacting the overall performance and applications of the material.