Phase diagrams are graphical representations of the phases present in a particular alloy being held at a particular temperature.  Phase diagrams are used to predict the phase changes that occur in alloys during heating and cooling. This can be during heat treating, casting solidification, joining processes that involve molten metal, and elevated temperature use conditions. This is important because the properties of a metal component depend on the phases present in the metal.

In this episode Michael discusses phase diagrams and their use.

To learn more about phase diagrams check out this video and article.