Studies of Bainitic Steel for Rail Applications Based on Carbide-Free, Low-Alloy Steel

Abstract This paper describes the development and characterisation of bainitic steel for rail applications based on carbide-free, low-alloy steel. The results show that after rolling subsequently cooling, designed carbide-free exhibits better mechanical performance than standard pearlitic is because its fine, microstructure, which consists ferrite retained austenite laths. Microstructural property analysis was carried out using scanning transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, hardness measurements, tensile low-cycle fatigue tests. obtained demonstrate during low cyclic deformation, a partial transformation into deformed martensite ? ? takes place, strain-induced martensitic occurs. initial strengthening material caused by increase in dislocation density In addition, an optimal amount form thin layers islands (dimensions not exceeding 1 µ m) made it possible to obtain high yield while maintaining plasticity These microstructural features also contributed crack resistance tested