Microstructure and tensile behaviors for a medium Mn steel with δ-ferrite phase under different annealing temperatures
Tianle Li, Shu Yan, Xianghua Liu
Abstract
In this experiment, we systematically investigated the microstructure evolution, mechanical properties, and deformation behaviors as functions of annealing temperature using cold-rolled Fe-0.05C–6Mn–1Al-1.5Si steel. Almost all annealed specimens are composed of the equiaxed and granular α-ferrite (α) grains due to recrystallization, reversed austenite (γ) grains because of reversed transformation from deformed martensite, and fibrous δ-ferrite (δ) grains only undergoing recovery during intercritical annealing except for 760 °C. It is interesting that several annealing twins are formed within γ grains. The outstanding combination of strength and ductility is obtained for annealing at 740 °C. The tensile strength and total elongation are 980 MPa and 32.1%, which are attributed to the ultrafine grains and optimal TRIP effect associated with rational γ content and stability. A phenomenon that yield point elongation (YPE) gradually shortens with increased γ content and decreased γ stability is observed. What's more, the mechanism that active α′ formation can promote the improvement of work hardening rate and further curtail YPE is verified using deep-cryogenic treatment. Based on SEM observation, microscopic strain of δ grains appears nearly consistent with matrix (α and γ grains) during tensile process, although δ phase presents as fibrous morphology with coarse size.