Computer Simulation of the Heat Treatment of Knitting Needles

ABSTRACT: The article discusses the main steels that are used to make needles for knitting machines. Based on an analysis of literature data, needles for knitting machines are primarily made of high-carbon steel, the main alloying elements of which are carbon in an amount of about 1.0 wt. %, silicon (0.3–0.5 wt. %), manganese (0.55–0.75% by weight), and chromium (about 0.4% by weight). In addition, these steels may contain microalloying additives, such as niobium in an amount of about 0.010% by weight. The publicly available computer model has been expanded to simulate the heat treatment of new materials for knitting machine needles. Using the developed computer model, the optimal structural and phase composition of the knitting needle material is established, which confirms its performance characteristics. It is shown that computer simulation of heat treatment modes makes it possible to conduct computer simulations of heat treatment modes with good accuracy and evaluate the effect of optimizing heat treatment parameters to obtain the best properties. Based on the results of computer modeling, one or more promising heat treatment modes can be selected, which can ultimately have a positive effect on the quality and service life of knitting needles.