Influence of Annealing Temperature on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of T4003 Ferritic Stainless Steel for Pipe Organ Rail Rod Components

Wen Sun

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64486/m.65.3.2
Online publication date: December 22, 2025

Abstract: T4003 ferritic stainless steel is a high-strength spring steel with excellent elasticity, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for precision components such as pipe organ rail rod mechanisms. This study systematically investigates the influence of annealing temperature (640–850) °C on the microstructure and mechanical properties of T4003 steel. Microstructural characterization was per-formed using optical microscopy, while mechanical properties including yield strength, tensile strength, section shrinkage, and yield‑to‑tensile ratio were evaluated. The results indicate that annealing at 850 °C promotes complete recrystallization and the formation of a fine, homogeneous ferritic grain structure, leading to optimal mechanical performance with a yield strength of 508 MPa and tensile strength of 614 MPa. However, a strength‑ductility trade‑off was observed, with ductility peaking at intermediate temperatures. The findings provide practical guidance for the heat treatment of T4003 steel in high‑precision mechanical applications.

Keywords: pipe organ rail rod mechanism; T4003 stainless steel; microstructure; mechanical properties

This article is published online first and will appear in Metalurgija, Vol. 65, Issue 3 (2026).