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Study on Microstructure and Properties of Q460 Steel at Different Ni Contents
Xuehai Qian1,2, Weiping Lu1, Zhen Li1
1School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 27, 2026
Summary
Adding nickel (Ni) to Q460 steel improves strength by forming bainite but increases inclusions. Optimal performance and cost are achieved with 0.3% Ni content.
Area of Science:
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Q460 steel is a high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel.
- Nickel (Ni) is an alloying element that can affect steel properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of varying nickel (Ni) content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Q460 steel.
- To determine the optimal Ni content for Q460 steel considering both performance and cost.
Main Methods:
- Hot continuous rolling process was used for steel production.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed for microstructural analysis.
- Universal testing machines were used to evaluate mechanical properties.
Main Results:
- Increasing Ni content led to a rise in inclusions and a microstructural evolution from ferrite/pearlite to ferrite/pearlite/bainite.
- Yield strength and tensile strength significantly improved due to bainite formation and grain refinement.
- Elongation and impact energy showed no substantial enhancement with increasing Ni content due to inclusions.
Conclusions:
- Nickel addition refines the microstructure and enhances the strength of Q460 steel.
- Controlling Ni content is crucial to balance strength improvements with potential negative impacts from inclusions.
- A Ni content of 0.3% is recommended for Q460 steel to achieve a favorable balance of cost and performance.
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