Finite element method simulation of phase transformations during cooling of 55SiMnMo steel

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to focus on numerical simulation investigations of phase transformation during cooling of 55SiMnMo steel, which is commonly applied to improve mechanical properties. Design/methodology/approach A mathematical model based on the finite element method (FEM) and the phase transformation kinetics model has been proposed to predict microstructure changes during continuous cooling of 55SiMnMo steel. This model can be employed to analyze the variation of austenite, special upper bainite and lump-like composite structure with cooling time at different cooling rates. Finding According to the continuous cooling experiments, when the cooling rate is lower than 0.1°C/s, the special upper bainite is the only transformation product which decreases with increasing cooling rate; when the cooling rate is above 0.5°C/s, the transformation products include special upper bainite and lump-like composite structure. Meanwhile, the results of continuous cooling experiment verified the correctness of this finite element model. Originality/value This model has a great value for proper controlling of the cooling process which can improve the quality of hollow drill steel and increase the service life of the final product.