Little-known Facts about Hammer Inventory Management: Will Long-term Storage Reduce the Initial Hardness?
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2025-07-02 15:24
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Prolonged storage of crusher hammers made from high-manganese steel (Hadfield steel) or high-chromium iron can influence their initial hardness, though the effects vary by material.
For high-manganese steel, the primary concern is not hardness loss but rather the potential for stress corrosion cracking in humid environments. This steel derives its hardness from work hardening during operation, meaning its initial hardness is less critical than its ability to harden under impact. However, improper storage (exposure to moisture, salt, or acidic conditions) may lead to surface pitting, which can later propagate into cracks under operational stress.
High-chromium iron, being more brittle, is more susceptible to microstructural changes over time. If stored in fluctuating temperatures, retained austenite may gradually transform into martensite, increasing brittleness rather than reducing hardness. Chromium's corrosion resistance helps prevent surface degradation, but prolonged exposure to high humidity can still cause minor surface oxidation, potentially affecting early-stage wear resistance.
Optimal storage conditions (dry, stable-temperature environments with protective coatings) minimize these risks. In most cases, hardness reduction is negligible (<2 HRC) within 5 years if stored properly. The greater risk lies in improper handling (e.g., dropping hammers during storage), which can cause microfractures. Manufacturers generally recommend using these components within 3–7 years to ensure peak performance.
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