Micro-characterisation and nano-analysis of S 6-5-2-5 high speed steel

The numerous possibilities offered by Energy Filtered Transmission Electron Microscopy (EFTEM) in the field of materials analysis is demonstrated with reference to the example of S 6-5-2-5 high speed steel. The microstructure of two trial casts differing slightly-in chemical composition is investiga ted in the fully annealed condition. The most apparent difference is found to be in the morphology, of the primary M2C-carbides. In the one case these were found to be coarse and plate shaped, whilst the other cast exhibited a refined carbide, lamellar solidified structure. Elemental distribution ma ps are used to gain information regarding individual chosen areas of the sp ecimens. The investigation demonstrates that the primary M2C-carbides are e nveloped within a V-rich phase.