Improving the uniformity of strength distribution in cylindrical specimens formed from iron based powders

The distribution of microhardness in cylindrical samples formed from industrial iron-based powders and not subjected to sintering is experimentally studied. This distribution is described by a simple mathematical model. It is shown that the measured hardness has a significant correlation with the strength. Microhardness is correlated with the local strength. Because, during the subsequent sintering and heat treatment of the powder sample, phase transformations occur within the individual grains, the microhardness distribution that occurs before the sample is sintered will remain after sintering. The technology of microhardness equalization in the sample at the stage of its forming, before sintering, is described.