What describes the cooling process of steel during and after it has been annealed?

The cooling process of steel during and after annealing is characterized by slow cooling, which is intentional to relieve internal stresses and refine the microstructure. This gradual cooling allows for the uniform transformation of the steel's crystalline structure, leading to the development of softer, more ductile material properties. As a result, the strength of the steel decreases compared to its hardened state, making it easier to work with and less susceptible to cracking or warping.

In contrast, rapid cooling generally leads to increased hardness and strength, typically associated with processes like quenching, not annealing. Similarly, moderate cooling or immediate cooling does not align with the goals of annealing, which focuses on softening rather than achieving variable or higher strength profiles. The key characteristic of the annealing process is its emphasis on slow cooling to produce a desirable low strength, enhanced ductility, and improved machinability in the steel.