HARDNESS EVALUATION OF ALPHA HOT-ROLLED URANIUM ROD FOR DRAWING

摘要

Microhardness examination of hot rolled FMPC uranium rod before and after beta-treatment and drawing revealed the presence of non-uniform hardening throughout the cross-section. Significantly hard annuli were found on transverse sections of material both drawn and not drawn in the region immediately below the surface to a depth of 0.050". The inhomogeneity in hardness present in the hot-rolled rods remained with area reductions up to 9% and die angles up to 15 degrees.nBeta-treating followed by cold drawing apparently shifted the hardness maximum towards the center of the rods. The greatest effect on hardness seemed to be at a point near 0.050" below the surface.