Thermodynamic model for precipitation of carbonitrides in high strength low alloy steels containing up to three microalloying elements with or without additions of aluminium

Abstract

To control austenite grain growth in high strength low alloy (HSLA) steels, additions of micro alloying elements showing chemical affinity for interstitial elements (C and N) are used. These elements have a significant effect on the mechanical properties of the steels. The mechanical properties of HSLA steels depend both on the amounts of the microalloying elements dissolved in the austenite and on undissolved carbonitrides. In the present work, a thermodynamic model enabling calculation of the composition of the austenite as well as the composition and quantity of the carbonitrides in HSLA steels containing up to four microalloying elements is presented. This model can be a useful tool in determining the optimum chemical compositions for steels as well as the heat treatment parameters required to maximise hardenability and to control austenite grain growth.MST/1471