Temperature (F)
1600
1,700F (930C)
1200
1,500F (815C)
800
Grade 125
ADI
750F (400C)
(250-320 Bhn)
450F (230C)
2 1/2 h max
(400-500 Bhn)
400
Presently there are no accepted standard specifications for ADI, but proposals for five grades of ADI
have been made which form the basis for discussion
and material selection between designers and
foundrymen.
Grade 200
ADI
0
0
Time (h)
Stage 1
Austenitizing in the range 1500-1700F (815920C). The specific austenitizing temperature
selected is related to the subsequent austempering
temperature and the grade of ADI required. Once
selected, the austenitizing temperature must be
closely controlled (10F).
11
Stage 2
Rapid transfer of the castings to the austempering
furnace (usually a salt bath) where the castings are
held isothermally at the selected austempering temperature. Austempering temperatures are in the
range 450-750F (230-400C) according to the properties required in the castings (ADI grade). Close
control over temperature and time of austempering is
essential.
450
250
1400
200
1200
1600
Tensile Strength, MPa
Austempering Temperature F
500 550 600 650 700
150
1000
Elongation %
12
8
4
0
220
260
300
340
380
Austempering Temperature C
ADI is well established as a gear material replacing forged steel with major production cost savings,
quieter operation and reduced weight. By machining
the gears before the austempering heat treatment,
major savings in machining costs are achieved.
12
13
WORLD PRODUCTION
OF
DUCTILE IRON
(Including Pipe)
20
3-5% Growth
MILLION TONNES
16
12
0
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
2000
14
15