Role of Mo on Static Recrystallization Kinetics in Coarse Grained Nb Microalloyed Steels

Abstract

Thin slab direct rolling (TSDR) technology has some important metallurgical differences compared to conventional routes. One of these differences deals with the combination of coarse as-cast austenite grains and the possibility of limited solubility of microalloyed addition at the entry of the rolling mill. The industrial tendency of increasing the strength and toughness of steel grades produced by TSDR route requires increased amounts of Nb addition to achieve a proper austenite conditioning prior to transformation. Nevertheless, an increase in the Nb content rises the risk of premature Nb(C,N) precipitation during early rolling stages. In order to avoid this, one possibility is to add Mo and limit the amount of Nb. This study analyzes the influence of different Mo contents on static recrystallization of Nb microalloyed steels. The analysis includes the evaluation of the incidence of the combined effect of Nb and Mo solute drag retardation in both heterogeneous recrystallization evolution and grain size distribution for the case of initial coarse austenite grain sizes. To do that, partially recrystallized microstructures have been analyzed and microstructural parameters of interest quantified.