Fatigue Strength of Formable Ultra High-Strength TRIP-Aided Steels with Bainitic Ferrite Matrix

Abstract:

Formable ultra high-strength TRIP-aided steel with bainitic ferrite matrix structure (TBF steel) contributes to a drastic weight reduction and an improvement of crash safety of automobile. In this study, fatigue strength of 0.2%C-1.5%Si-1.5%Mn TBF steels was investigated. High fatigue limit was achieved in TBF steels austempered at 400-450oC, containing a large amount of stable retained austenite. The fatigue limit was linearly related with mobile dislocation density, as well as TRIP effect of retained austenite. When compared to conventional martensitic steel, the TBF steel exhibited lower notch-sensitivity or higher notched fatigue performance. Complex additions of 0.5%Al, 0.05%Nb and 0.2%Mo considerably improved the notched fatigue performance, as well as the smooth fatigue strength. This was associated with the stabilized retained austenite and refined microstructure which suppress fatigue crack initiation and/or propagation.