T-T-T (Time-Temperature-Transformation) diagram

A T-T-T (Time-Temperature-Transformation) diagram is a graphical representation used to understand how different temperatures affect the microstructure of materials, particularly steel, as they cool. It shows how long a material needs to stay at a certain temperature for various transformations to occur, such as the formation of different phases like pearlite or martensite. This helps engineers and metallurgists determine the best cooling processes to achieve desired material properties like strength and toughness, guiding decisions in manufacturing and heat treatment. Essentially, it highlights the relationship between time, temperature, and the resulting structure of materials.