Mechanical Properties and Microstructures of a Novel Low-carbon High-silicon Martensitic Steel

Abstract

A novel low-carbon high-silicon martensitic steel, 22SiMnCrNiMo, whose comprehensive mechanical properties approach the 00Ni18Co9Mo4Ti maraging steel, was investigated. Microstructure characterizations revealed that the steel was composed by lath martensite, retained austenite films and ε-carbides after different heat treatment processes. And the 22SiMnCrNiMo steel obtained optimal mechanical properties of a yield strength of 1261 MPa, a tensile strength of 1548 MPa, an impact toughness of 120 J/cm², a fracture toughness (K_IC) of 94.8 MPa·m^1/2 and a threshold value (ΔK_th) of 7.1 MPa·m^1/2 when the steel was austenitised at 900°C for 1 h followed by water quenched and then tempered at 320°C for 1 h. The 22SiMnCrNiMo steel exhibited excellent mechanical properties similar to those of the 00Ni18Co9Mo4Ti maraging steel as well as high resistance to fatigue crack initiation and growth.