The sintered and heat treated properties of 4100 prealloyed powder (0.9Cr, 0.8 Mn, 0.25Mo) were examined over a range of densities (6.8, 7.1, and 7.2 gm/cm3 and carbon contents (0.25, 0.5, and 0.9%). The effect of alloying elements on as-sintered UTS was also studied. For comparison, elementally blended 4600 was used as a “standard” wherever practical.
In the “as-sintered” condition, 4100 offers exceptionally superior mechanical properties especially at higher carbons, which exceed even the heat treated properties of conventionally processed 4600 alloy, In the heat treated condition, there are no significant differences between the two alloys, but the superior hardenability of 4100 makes it more attractive.
Potential automotive applications are identified where 4100 can be a candidate to replace heat treated P/M forged or wrought components.