Rosenhain Centenary Conference - 3. Materials development present and future 3.2 Controlled rolling

Abstract

Controlled rolling is a means whereby the properties of steel can be improved to a level equivalent to those of more highly alloyed or heat-treated steels. The processing conditions are controlled to refine the austenite structure and thereby give fine ferrite grains. Refinement of the structure is aided by the addition of micro-alloying elements such as Nb, V or Ti. The improved strength and toughness of controlled rolled steels are shown to be a result of the fine grain size. A further increase in strength beyond that due to grain refinement can be obtained by finishing rolling at low temperatures in the y + oc or cc regions. Commercial controlled rolling in various mill layouts, together with some properties obtained are described and it is pointed out that optimization of productivity is a major consideration when controlled-rollmg procedures are being planned.