Development of ultrafine ferritic sheaves/plates in SAE 52100 steel for enhancement of strength by controlled thermomechanical processing

► Ultrafine bainite + martensite duplex microstructure developed in SAE 52100 steel. ► Thermomechanical processing modifies size + morphology of bainitic ferrite. ► Processing involves hot deformation prior to/during/after austenitizing. ► Significant improvement in mechanical strength achieved. ► Similar study on high carbon, low alloy steel not reported in the literature.