Data for: Microstructural Evolution, Diffusion Kinetics, and Enhanced Tribological Performance of Gas-Nitrided NAK80 Steel for Precision Mold Applications

Published: 3 August 2026| Version 1 | DOI: 10.17632/8mg9rhh3p4.1
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Description

This dataset contains raw and processed data supporting the research article titled "Microstructural Evolution, Diffusion Kinetics, and Enhanced Tribological Performance of Gas-Nitrided NAK80 Steel for Precision Mold Applications". The provided data includes: 1. Microstructural Images: High-resolution Optical Microscopy (OM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs showing the nitrided layer morphology and case depth for various temperatures (480°C, 510°C, 540°C, and 570°C). 2. Chemical Analysis: Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) mapping and line scan profiles detailing the nitrogen distribution and alloy element gradients across the diffusion interface. 3. Phase Identification: X-ray Diffraction (XRD) raw data and patterns confirming the formation of γ’-Fe4N and ε-Fe2-3N nitride phases. 4. Mechanical Testing: Raw microhardness (Vickers) distribution profiles and effective case depth (ECD) measurements. 5. Tribological Performance: Coefficient of Friction (COF) logs, wear rate calculations, data obtained from dry sliding Pin-on-Disk tests. This dataset aims to provide a comprehensive metallurgical foundation for optimizing the surface integrity of NAK80 tool steel in high-precision mold manufacturing.

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Steps to reproduce

1. Specimen Preparation: Cut NAK80 steel into 15x15x10 mm3 samples using wire-cut EDM. Surface grinding with SiC papers (120 to 2000 grit) followed by fine polishing with 1.0 μm Cr2O3 to achieve a mirror finish (Ra < 0.05 μm). 2. Gas Nitriding: Perform the process in a horizontal furnace with dissociated ammonia (NH3). Set heating rate at 10°C/min. Establish four regimes: 480°C/5h, 510°C/5h, 540°C/2.5h, and 570°C/2.5h. 3. Microstructural Characterization: Cross-section the samples, etch with 4% Nital, and examine using Optical Microscopy (OM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Perform EDS line scans and mapping for elemental distribution. 4. Phase Analysis: Conduct X-ray Diffraction (XRD) using a Cu-Kα source (λ ≈ 1.54 Å) in a 2θ range of 35° to 95°. 5. Hardness Testing: Measure microhardness distribution starting from 10 μm below the surface using a Vickers tester (100 gf load, 10s dwell time) according to ISO 18203. 6. Wear Testing: Execute dry sliding wear tests using a Pin-on-Disk tribometer at room temperature under constant normal load. Use a profilometer to measure wear depth and calculate wear rates.

Institutions

Categories

Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Surface Engineering, Metallurgy, Tribology

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