Microstructural evolution during simple heavy warm compression of a low carbon steel: Development of a processing map

Microstructural evolution during simple heavy warm compression was studied using electron back scattering diffraction in a low carbon steel (0.15 wt.% C). Plane strain compression tests were conducted in file temperature range of 773-923 K at strain rates of 0.01 and 1 s(-1) and the specimens were deformed to 25% of the original thickness. The strain rate and temperature were summarized into the Zener-Hollomon (Z) parameter and its variation with the imposed strain was Studied oil the basis of the grain boundary character with a View to understand the critical conditions for file formation of ultrafine grains. A processing map drawn oil the axes of compressive strain (E) and Z parameter was developed which makes the selection of processing variables (Such as strain, strain rate and temperature) simple towards achieving tailor made microstructures in industrial components. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.