The Effect of Quenching on High-temperature Heat Treated Mild Steel and Its Corrosion Resistance

Steel is extensively used in many applications that include construction because of its unique properties and the ease with which its properties can be enhanced for improved performance. Due to its high malleability and strength, it can be easily machined and welded compared to other types of steel. However, the susceptibility to low performance has been associated with its low resistance to environmental degradation when exposed to corrosive or polluted environments. This study focuses on mild steel heat treatment quenched in four mediums of engine oil, water, palm oil, and air, along with its properties and corrosion susceptibility. The high temperature used for the procedure is 800 degrees C, 900 degrees C, and 1000 degrees C, respectively. After the heat treatment procedure, the test samples undergo corrosion testing in the sodium chloride solution for two weeks to observe the presence of corrosion products rust on its surface. The tensile machine was utilized to obtain the mechanical properties, including yield strength, tensile strength, and percentage elongation. The hardness values were obtained using the Rockwell hardness machine, and the optical microscope (OM) was used to observe the effect of the corrosion activity on the sample surface. The results obtained indicate an increase in the hardness, yield, and tensile strength, but the elongation reduces as the temperature increases.