The GATE Grind

GATE 2019 ME (ME2) – Question 24

Engineering Materials · Phase diagrams and heat treatment · 1 mark · Multiple choice

Hardenability of steel measures ______.

  1. Ability to harden when cold worked
  2. Maximum attainable hardness after austenitizing and quenching
  3. Depth to which required hardening is obtained after austenitizing and quenching
  4. Ability to retain hardness at elevated temperature

Practise this question in The GATE Grind →

Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (C) Depth to which required hardening is obtained after austenitizing and quenching

Explanation

Hardenability concerns the depth to which the required hardened structure can form after austenitizing and quenching. It is distinct from maximum attainable hardness,which depends strongly on carbon content. Hence **depth of hardening,C**. Hot hardness describes retention of hardness at elevated temperature.