Hot forming of a low-carbon steel AISI 1005 for fashion accessories

In this work, the use of a low-carbon steel AISI 1005 (Wr. N. 1.0303) is proposed as a substitute of CuZn40Pb2 brass in order to produce fashion accessories by hot forming. The heating process of the billets for hot forming has been carried out at 1050°C through a muffle furnace or by induction furnace. The components surface quality has been evaluated after hot forming by means of a quality indicator. The microstructural characterization has been carried out by optical and scanning electron microscopy. The results reveal how different grain size and morphology are observed throughout the component, revealing different recrystallization and growth kinetics. Fine carbide precipitation is locally observed in the final components. Defects are present such as cold shuts and oxide inclusions due to improper design of the die.