3.2. Microstructure and carburized layer profile
FE-SEM examinations of the microstructures and carburized layer
profiles for both carburizing processes are shown in Fig. 3. The different
size microstructure for both grain sizes can be clearly seen in
Fig. 3a and b, whereby the average grain sizes are 3 μm and 30 μm
for fine and coarse DSS respectively. It can be observed that the morphologies
for all carburized layers are uniform and smooth. It was
reported elsewhere [13] that the compact and smooth morphology
is due to the high alloying elements in stainless steel. It can be
noted that the formation of carbides is more uniform in the fine