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Influence of Mo and Cu additions on the microstructure and mechanical performance of air-hardening ductile forging steels in the context of circular economy
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DOI：10.1016/j.msea.2026.150881.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
The increasing reliance and usage of recycled steel in the global steel industry brings the need for a scientific assessment of alloying concepts that remain robust against recycling-induced variations in steel composition. In this study, the influence of elevated Mo and Cu concentrations, representing exaggerated recycling-induced alloying elements, on the microstructure and mechanical performance of cost-effective air-hardening ductile (AHD) forging steels is systematically investigated. The results show that both elements improve the hardenability of the steels by delaying diffusional and bainitic transformations, increasing the maximum possible thickness of forging components that can be produced via air cooling. Cu alloying significantly controls the prior austenite grain size, most likely through a solute drag effect in solid solution. Among the achieved microstructures, the fully martensitic state exhibits the most favorable mechanical property profile, combining the highest strength under static and cyclic loading, adequate ductility, and the highest impact toughness. However, multiphase microstructures, containing bainite and martensite, display inconsistent trends in tensile ductility and impact toughness. Overall, the results suggest that recycling-induced Mo and Cu alloying can improve the mechanical performance of the AHD forging steels as long as Cu-induced hot shortness can be avoided during processing.
Keywords:
Martensite
Bainite
Air-hardening
Ductile
Forging
Copper
Journal
M
IF:
7
Papers:
3.7W
Citations:
13.8W
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