State-of-the-knowledge on TWIP steel

High Mn twinning induced plasticity (TWIP) steel is a new type of structural steel, characterised by both high strength and superior formability. TWIP steel offers an extraordinary opportunity to adjust the mechanical properties of steel by modifying the strain hardening. The use of TWIP steel may therefore lead to a considerable lightweighting of steel components, a reduction of material use and an improved press forming behaviour. These key advantages will help implement current automotive vehicle design trends which emphasise a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and lowering of fuel consumption. In addition, high strength TWIP steel will effectively contribute to weight containment in vehicles equipped with hybrid and electric motors, as these are considerably heavier than conventional motors. The present review addresses all aspects of the physical metallurgy of the high strength TWIP steel with a special emphasis on the properties and key advantages of TWIP sheet steel products relevant to automotive applications.