Prediction of Rolling Load, Recrystallization Kinetics, and Microstructure During Hot Strip Rolling

The recrystallization kinetics and grain size models were developed for the C-Mn and niobium-containing steels to describe the metallurgical phenomenon such as softening, grain growth, and strain accumulation. Based on the recrystallization kinetics equations, the mean flow stress and the rolling load of each pass were predicted and the optimum rolling schedule was proposed for hot strip rolling. The austenite grain refinement is associated with the addition of niobium, the decrease of starting temperature of finish rolling, and the reduction of finished thickness. The mean flow stress curve with a continuous rising characteristic can be usually observed in the finish rolling of niobium-containing steel, which is formed as a result of the heavy incomplete softening and strain accumulation. The predicted rolling loads are in good agreement with the measured ones.