Influence of smelting processes on precipitation behaviors and mechanical properties of low activation ferrite steels

▶ Creep properties could be improved dramatically by control of smelting process. ▶ VIM + ESR smelting process could improve the W macrosegregation. ▶ W could accelerate the transition of M7C3 to M23C6 in RAFM steel. ▶ The synergetic effect of carbides and tungsten depletion of solid solution lead to the decrease in creep resistance.