Development and Optimization of Quenching and Tempering Cycle to Evaluate Hardness and Abrasive Wear Resistance on Boron Steels

This research project aims to optimize heat treatment cycles-specifically quenching and tempering – to increase hardness and abrasive wear resistance of boron steel specimens. The primary goal is to achieve a minimum Rockwell C hardness (HRC) of 50, distributed homogeneously. The study employs an experimental approach using standardized testing. The design of experiments will be implemented, varying parameters such as tempering temperature, soaking time and type of boron steel. Rockwell hardness tests and abrasive wear tests based on ASTM G65 will be conducted to evaluate the mechanical response of the treated steel. The project also incorporates the DMAIC methodology as a structured roadmap to ensure continuous improvement, reproducibility and process control. This study contributes to the field of materials engineering by establishing optimized heat treatment protocols for boron steels, offering improved performance for components subjected to abrasive conditions.