Nippon Steel Corporation has achieved a significant milestone with the granting of a patent (Publication Number: US11965231B2) for an advanced steel material characterized by specific chemical composition and microstructure. This pioneering material is formulated to include a precise combination of elements such as carbon, silicon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, aluminum, nitrogen, oxygen, copper, nickel, boron, niobium, titanium, and calcium, adhering to stringent criteria outlined in Formula (1) to Formula (4).
The patented steel material requires a microstructure with a minimum total area fraction of ferrite and pearlite amounting to 10.0% or more, with the remainder consisting predominantly of bainite. Notably, the proportion of vanadium content in the electrolytic extraction residue must not exceed 10.0% of the vanadium content in the steel's chemical composition, ensuring optimal material performance.
The newly patented steel material also incorporates specified ranges for additional elements such as copper, nickel, boron, niobium, and titanium. For instance, copper and nickel are prescribed within the range of 0.01% to 0.20%, while boron, niobium, and titanium are included to further enhance the material's properties tailored for diverse applications in manufacturing, construction, automotive, and other industries.
The precise chemical composition and microstructure of this steel material are meticulously designed to optimize its mechanical properties, durability, and performance under varying operational conditions. Such advancements are crucial in meeting the stringent requirements of modern industrial applications where high-performance materials are essential for ensuring reliability and longevity.
The application of this innovative steel material extends across a spectrum of industries, offering enhanced solutions for structural components, automotive parts, machinery, and construction materials. By achieving a delicate balance of alloying elements and microstructural characteristics, Nippon Steel aims to set new benchmarks in material science and contribute significantly to technological advancements globally.