Business targets
Ultra low-carbon steel is quite a unique modern product as it combines very high ductility with increased strength values.
At the same time, it is characterized by the absence of aging, i.e. its properties do not change over time.
The heat treatment of such steel is normally accomplished on continuous annealing lines. For such product mix this type of annealing is not optimal, since it often leads to heterogeneous properties. Therefore it was decided to launch a project to develop a technology for such steel to be annealed in batch annealing furnaces.
Implementation features
We started with a detailed study of steel samples from previous campaigns, including experimental ones. A specialized research methodology was developed.
As a result inclusions of a rather exotic composition were found for the first time in Russia, that inhibit recrystallization. On a global scale our research activities related to those inclusions are on the same front lines with two largest steel making companies.
The next step was to calculate the conditions for the formation of all possible inclusions, which became the starting point for the development of production technology. We are currently conducting industrial trials.