The thermal energy of forged components can be effectively used to achieve microstructure with mechanical properties equal to or better than those achievable with traditional reheat quenching and tempering, annealing, and normalizing processes.
This is accomplished by optimizing the cooling process using the CCT diagram of the microalloyed steel. Depending on the composition of microalloyed steel and on the shape and mass of the final product, optimal cooling design is essential for meeting the design specifications for microstructure, strength, and toughness.
Figure 6 above shows the advancement of microstructure control technology for toughness of microalloyed DHT steels.
For more information, click on the link below (subscription required). Then scroll down the Chapter Contents column on the left of the page, and click on “Microalloyed Steels for Direct Heat Treatment Technology.” Then scroll to Figure 6.
