Microstructure evolution in hot worked steel after heating to semi-solid state

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Metallurgy
• Physical Metallurgy

Background:

• Semi-solid metal processing requires a specific globular microstructure.
• Achieving this microstructure in alloy steels is crucial for advanced manufacturing.
• X210CrW12 steel is a candidate for applications requiring high-temperature strength.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a globular microstructure in X210CrW12 steel using the strain-induced melt-activated (SIMA) method.
• To analyze the microstructural evolution during semi-solid processing.
• To confirm the suitability of the developed microstructure for semi-solid forming.

Main Methods:

• Application of the strain-induced melt-activated (SIMA) method.
• Heating of hot-rolled and cooled X210CrW12 steel samples into the semi-solid temperature range.
• Microstructural characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Chemical analysis using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).

Main Results:

• The SIMA method successfully induced the formation of a globular microstructure in X210CrW12 steel.
• Spheroidal solid particle shapes, essential for semi-solid processing, were observed.
• The material was successfully processed in the partially liquid state.

Conclusions:

• The strain-induced melt-activated method is effective for developing the necessary microstructure in X210CrW12 steel for semi-solid processing.
• The findings support the feasibility of using X210CrW12 steel in semi-solid forming applications.
• Further research can explore the mechanical properties of alloys processed using this method.