What is strain hardening of steel?

Strain hardening, also known as work hardening, is the process by which steel becomes stronger and harder as it is deformed plastically. During this process, the dislocation density within the material increases, making further deformation more difficult. This phenomenon occurs when steel is subjected to processes like bending, stretching, or forging, resulting in improved tensile strength and hardness. However, it can also reduce ductility, making the material more brittle.