Structure and properties of low-carbon high-manganese cast steels for cryogenic use

Abstract

Various chemical compositions of high-manganese cast steels intended for cryogenic applications were considered, following which three alloys were prepared. The microstructure of the steels was studied, the mechanical properties at room temperature and different subzero temperatures were determined, and the fracture surfaces of impact test specimens broken at different temperatures were observed. The experimental results show that a low carbon content and high manganese/carbon ratio have a remarkable effect on conferring toughness at low temperatures. Low-C high-Mn cast steels with a structure consisting of an austenitic matrix and ε-martensite have good low-temperature mechanical properties and are well suited for cryogenic applications.