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Microstructure-property relations in as-extruded ultrahigh-carbon steels

Journal Article · · Metallurgical and Materials Transactions. A, Physical Metallurgy and Materials Science
;  [1];  [2];  [3]
  1. Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (United States)
  2. NASA-Lewis Research Center, Cleveland, OH (United States)
  3. Stanford Univ., CA (United States). Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering

The microstructure and mechanical properties of as-extruded ultrahigh-carbon steels (UHCSs) are described. Extrusion ratios of 16:1 reduction were used at extrusion temperatures of 900 C, 1025 C, and 1150 C. Air cooling followed the extrusion process. The compositions of the four UHCSs investigated ranged from 1.2 to 1.8 pct C and contained either aluminum or silicon and/or chromium as the principal alloying elements. The as-extruded microstructures were predominantly pearlitic. Detailed examination of the microstructures allowed determination of the composition and extrusion temperature at which grain-boundary carbide networks and graphite can be avoided. It is shown that the yield strength of the as-extruded bars, for a given UHCS alloy composition, correlates well with the interlamellar spacing, independent of the extrusion temperature. Ultimate tensile strengths ranged from 1000 to 1690 MPa, and elongations to failure ranged from 3 to 12.5 pct. The present results indicate that single-step mechanical working of UHCSs to achieve fully pearlitic structures, with no postworking heat treatment, can lead to a new class of ultrahigh-strength steels.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
677968
Journal Information:
Metallurgical and Materials Transactions. A, Physical Metallurgy and Materials Science, Journal Name: Metallurgical and Materials Transactions. A, Physical Metallurgy and Materials Science Journal Issue: 6 Vol. 30; ISSN MMTAEB; ISSN 1073-5623
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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