Strain induced precipitation effect on austenite static recrystallisation in microalloyed steels

Using torsion tests and applying the back extrapolation method, the strain induced precipitation effect on austenite static recrystallisation in vanadium and niobium microalloyed steels has been studied and a model has been constructed. This model takes account of precipitation and its influence on recrystallisation kinetics, in particular on the activation energy, which is increased. The model is applied at temperatures below the temperature at which inhibition of recrystallisation commences owing to the induced precipitation. The new values of activation energy can be three times higher than the activation energy before precipitation has started, depending on the contents of elements responsible for the precipitation (Nb, V, N, C).