Description

The Influence of Atmosphere and Temperature on the Behavior of Steel in Forging Furnaces by D. W. Murphy and W. E. Jominy examines how the quality of steel is affected by the control of gases and heating temperatures in forging furnaces. The study highlights that an oxidizing atmosphere causes rapid scaling and potential damage to the steel, while a reducing atmosphere minimizes scaling and raises the burning temperature. It also discusses the impact of sulfur in furnace gases, which can increase scaling losses and sulfur content in the steel. The research underscores the importance of controlling both temperature and atmosphere to prevent issues such as burning, scaling, and decarburization, which are crucial for producing high-quality forgings. The study was conducted with financial support from the Committee on Industrial Gas Research of the American Gas Association and carried out under the direction of the Department of Engineering Research at the University of Michigan. The investigation aims to improve furnace design and operation, with the Bulletin divided into three parts: Part I focuses on burning and overheating, Part II on the rate of heating, and Part III on the scaling of steels at forging temperatures.