Modeling medium carbon steels by using artificial neural networks

An artificial neural network (ANN) model has been developed for the analysis and simulation of the correlation between the mechanical properties and composition and heat treatment parameters of low alloy steels. The input parameters of the model consist of alloy compositions (C, Si, Mn, S, P, Ni, Cr, Mo, Ti, and Ni) and heat treatment parameters (cooling rate and tempering temperature). The outputs of the ANN model include property parameters namely: ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, percentage elongation, reduction in area and impact energy. The model can be used to calculate the properties of low alloy steels as a function of alloy composition and heat treatment variables. The individual and the combined influence of inputs on properties of medium carbon steels is simulated using the model. The current study achieved a good performance of the ANN model, and the results are in agreement with experimental knowledge. Explanation of the calculated results from the metallurgical point of view is attempted. The developed model can be used as a guide for further alloy development.