Effect of Boron Addition to Steel on Mechanical Properties

Abstract

In the production of qualified steel, if 5–30 ppm boron is present in the product, the hardenability of the steel increases significantly by the case hardening process. This small amount of boron content reduces the austenite grain size (by preventing grain growth) and increases the matrix hardness through the precipitates formed.With the addition of boron, it is possible to obtain the desired hardness depth due to the cementation applied especially in gear parts. This result obtained in boron steels is similar to Cr, Mn, Mo, Ni, etc., which are used in conditions where boron is not used. In other words, the use of boron as a microalloying element also provides cost savings. In this study, the parameters affecting the hardenability of steel by boron addition amounts in steel production using ferroboron were investigated on the basis of chemical content, metallographic structure, and mechanical properties. © The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society 2025.