Influence of microalloying on the kinetics of the transformations, the structure, and the properties of low-carbon martensitic steels

The possibility of microalloying of low-carbon 10Kh3G2 steel with titanium and vanadium was evaluated. The kinetics of the transformations in the steels, the temper resistance, and the austenitic grain and martensitic lath sizes were investigated. Electron microscopic investigation of the fine structure of the steel shows that after austenitization at 900-1000/degree/: No. 12, (Dec 1987)C and air cooling lath martensite is formed in this steel. Microadditions of titanium and vanadium cause a significant decrease in the austenitic grain size. A decrease in the martensite lath size also occurs. Additions of titanium cause an increase in strength with little difference in plasticity and impact strength. Microalloying with vanadium causes higher strength properties with tempering at 630-650/degree/: No. 12, (Dec 1987)C but the impact strength drops.