Isothermal Transformation Diagram

Isothermal transformation diagrams (also known as time-temperature-transformation diagrams) are plots of temperature versus time (usually on a logarithmic scale). They are generated from percentage transformation-vs logarithm of time measurements, and are useful for understanding the transformations of an alloy steel that is cooled isothermally. An isothermal transformation diagram is only valid for one specific composition of material, and only if the temperature is held constant during the transformation, and strictly with rapid cooling to that temperature. Though usually used to represent transformation kinetics for steels, they also can be used to describe the kinetics of crystallization in ceramic or other materials. Time-temperature-precipitation diagrams and time-temperature-embrittlement diagrams have also been used to represent kinetic changes in steels.

Isothermal transformation (IT) diagram or the C-curve is associated with mechanical properties, microconstituents/microstructures, and heat treatments in carbon steels. The rate of austenite transforms to a cementite and ferrite mixture can be explained using the sigmoidal curve; this eutectoid transformation begins and is represented by the pearlite start (P_s) curve. This transformation is complete at P_f curve. Nucleation requires an incubation time. The rate of nucleation increases and the rate of microconstituent growth decreases as the temperature decreases from the liquidus temperature. As a result of the transformation, the microconstituents, Pearlite and Bainite, form; Pearlite forms at higher temperatures and bainite at lower.

Austenite is slightly undercooled when quenched below Eutectoid temperature. When given more time, stable microconstituents can form: ferrite and cementite. Coarse pearlite is produced when atoms diffuse rapidly after phases that form pearlite nucleate. This transformation is complete at the pearlite finish time (P_f).

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