The Effect of Alloy Elements on the Performance of Steels
Steel is an alloy of iron and other elements, mainly carbon, which is by far the most important alloying element used in steels. Alloying elements are added to steels mainly for the purpose of changing the properties of the steels for the manufacture of products for specific applications. The addition of alloy elements can improve some of the physical, chemical and mechanical properties of steels.
Carbon is the most important alloying element for steel. Increasing the amount of carbon in steel increases its strength, hardness and brittleness. Carbon has a significant effect on the microstructure of steels, creating a mixture of ferrite and pearlite (at room temperature). High carbon steels contain more than 0.8% carbon, while low carbon steels have less than 0.2% carbon.
Manganese is the second most important alloying element in steel. It improves the strength of steels, increases the hot and cold working properties and improves the toughness of the steel. Manganese also helps to improve the weldability of steels by preventing cracking during welding. Manganese adds extra steel to the structure of steels, and its addition also increases the hardenability of steels.
Chromium is another common alloying element used in steel. It increases the hardenability, strength and wear resistance of steels. It is also used to increase the corrosion and oxidation resistance of steels, making them ideal for applications where corrosion resistance is important.
Nickel is added to steel in small amounts for the purpose of increasing the strength and hardenability of steels. It also increases the corrosion and oxidation resistance of steels. When used in large amounts, it increases the toughness of the steel.
Molybdenum is an alloying element that is added to steels mainly for increasing the strength and hardenability of steels. It also helps to improve the corrosion resistance of steels by increasing their resistance to thick hot chloride solutions. Molybdenum is commonly used in combination with chromium and nickel to produce stainless steels.
Vanadium is another alloying element used in steel. It increases the strength and toughness of steels while also improving their wear resistance. Vanadium also makes steels more resistant to thermal shock and helps retain their strength at high temperatures.
Silicon is an alloying element that improves both the strength and the corrosion resistance of steels. It enhances the formability of steels and can improve the weldability of steels. Silicon also improves the hardenability and tempering resistance of steels, making them ideal for applications in tools and dies.
These are some of the most common alloying elements that are used in steel manufacture. The amount of each of these elements that is added to steels can vary greatly depending on the application and requirements of the product that is being produced. By carefully selecting specific alloying elements and adjusting their amounts, steels can be customized to produce products geared for specific uses.