Introduction
Grain-oriented electrical steel (GOES) is a special type of silicon-alloyed steel which represents a specific variant of the relatively common class of electrical steel (ES) steels. The steelmaking process occurs in an atmosphere-controlled environment so that the degree of oxidation and grain orientation of the steel can be managed. GOES is particularly used for operating conditions which require high magnetic induction values, low core losses, and high stiffness.
Definition
GOES is a highly-specialized type of electrical steel which is used to manufacture high-end tools, components, and electrical equipment. It is made up of a 3% silicon alloy which restricts austenite grain growth during the lamination process and ensures the optimum levels of magnetic permeability. During the manufacturing process, the material is rolled in the form of a continuous strip at temperatures above the critical transition point when the material is hot-rolled, the end result is a magnetic domain structure which aligns itself parallel to the rolling direction, creating a highly grain-oriented structure.
Characteristics
Grain-oriented electrical steel (GOES) has a number of mechanical and electrical properties which make it ideal for use in demanding applications. It is particularly noted for its high permeability and low core losses.
Mechanically, it has high surface finish due to the uniformity of the surface grain orientation. It also has excellent formability and punchability, which makes it ideal for the manufacturing of complicated shapes and the use of tight tolerances.
The electrical properties of GOES are determined by its magnetic domain structure. The parallel alignment of grains increases magnetic inductance, increasing efficiency and improving electricity-generating performance when compared to non-grain oriented electrical steel.
Applications
Grain-oriented electrical steel is used in a variety of applications, including transformers, motors and generators, as well as in integrated circuits and telecommunications equipment. Its high permeability makes it particularly useful in applications which require a high efficiency, such as in motor and generator lamination cores, while its low core losses make it a preferred choice for use in high-efficiency transformers.
Moreover, its excellent formability, flexibility and surface finish make it ideal for the production of stampings and laminations, as well as printed circuit boards which are designed to operate at higher frequency.
Conclusion
Grain-oriented electrical steel is a highly-specialized material which offers excellent mechanical and electrical properties, making it suitable for use in a variety of applications which require high efficiency and top performance. Used for transformers, motors and generators, as well as integrated circuits and telecommunications equipment, GOES is an important part of the industry.
