L A B 3 - C OL D W O R K A N D A N N E A L

TO:

DR. MIRTH

FROM:

JACOB TOPPEN

MAIL BOX:

CM 1337

SUBJECT:

LAB REPORT

DUE DATE:

JANUARY 15, 2016

CLASS:

ME 328-03

Introduction
In this lab we are examining the relationship between time and temperature in the
recrystallization and grain growth process. We will see how the differences in recrystallization and
grain growth processes between samples will affect their yield strength, tensile strength, and ductility.
Procedure
Many samples were annealed varying the heating time and heating temperature according to
the given chart. For recrystallization to occur, the temperature must reach over 100% of the melting
point of the material. This is achieved using an oven capable of thousands of degrees Fahrenheit.
Each sample was hardness tested and tensile tested to failure. Measurements included hardness
(HRA), yield strength, tensile strength, and ductility. From the stress and strain data gathered by a
computer from the tensile tester we can gather the tensile strength, material strength, and ductility.
Results
Increasing the anneal time for steel decreases strength but increases ductility. Increasing the
anneal temperature for steel also decreases strength but increases ductility. Please refer to the graphs
on the next page. The graphs show the effect of annealing time and temperature on tensile strength,
yield strength, and ductility.
Discussion and Conclusions
We expected annealing the material to increase its ductility and reduce its strength and
hardness. These changes to the material properties occur because in annealing, atoms migrate in the
crystal lattice and the number of dislocations decreases. Understanding the annealing process can be
useful to engineers who work with design, manufacturing, testing, and research. An engineer may
choose the dimensions of a part they are designing differently if they can change the strength of the
material. Being able to anneal a parts after manufacturing to strengthen them can be beneficial. Test
engineers need to understand how annealing has affected the parts they are testing so they can better
understand the results of their tests. I would restore the ductility of steel by annealing after drawing
or stamping a complex shape like electrical boxes or cooking pans to allow more cold working
without cracking.

Effect of Annealing onTensile Strength

120

Tensile Strength [ksi]

100
80
800 F

60

900 F

40

1000 F

20
0
0

10

15

20

25

30

35

Anneal Time [m]

Effect of Annealing on Yield Strength

70

Yield Strength [ksi]

60
50
40
800 F
30

900 F

20

1000 F

10
0
0

10

15

20

Anneal Time [m]

25

30

35

Effect of Annealing on Ductility

120

Ductility [%]

100
80
800 F

60

900 F

40

1000 F
20
0
0

10

15

20

Anneal Time [m]

25

30

35