What is the maximum temperature for heat straightening or forming of low-alloy steels?

The maximum temperature for heat straightening or forming of low-alloy steels is 650° Celsius. This temperature is significant because it allows for effective modifying of the material's structure without exceeding the limits that could lead to unwanted metallurgical changes.

At 650° Celsius, low-alloy steels achieve sufficient ductility and workability, enabling welders and fabricators to manipulate these materials without compromising their mechanical properties. Heating these steels to this range facilitates a proper response from the material, allowing for the correction of distortions or the shaping of parts while maintaining a balance between strength and flexibility.

Temperatures beyond this threshold can induce phase changes and result in the loss of desirable mechanical properties, such as toughness and strength, due to grain growth or changes in microstructure. Therefore, adhering to the recommended temperature limits is critical in welding and metal forming practices, ensuring that the final products retain their integrity and performance characteristics.