Paper Title
OPTIMIZING QUENCHING AND PARTITIONING PARAMETERS FOR ENHANCED STRENGTH AND DUCTILITY IN LOW ALLOY 42SICR STEEL

Abstract
This study investigates the optimization of quenching and partitioning (Q-P) parameters to enhance the mechanical properties of low-alloy 42SiCr steel, specifically targeting a balance of high strength and ductility. The Q-P treatment, crucial for applications in automotive and structural industries, refines the steel's microstructure by promoting martensitic transformation and stabilizing retained austenite. By varying cooling rates and partitioning times, the effects on tensile strength, hardness, and ductility are systematically analyzed. The findings indicate that controlled cooling rates between Ms (martensite start) and Mf (martensite finish) temperatures can optimize these properties, providing insights for adapting Q-P processes to component shapes and thicknesses. This approach offers a practical pathway to developing high-performance steels that withstand demanding load conditions, extending the scope of Q-P heat treatment in critical industrial applications Keywords - Low Alloy Steel, Deformability, UTS, Q-P, 42SiCr