Reverse metallurgical engineering towards sustainable manufacturing of vehicles using Nb and Mo alloyed high performance steels

Abstract

Steel is the dominant construction material for most industrial goods such as equipments, structures, buildings or vehicles. Although there have been great advances in steel technology over the last 4 decades, the industry currently faces serious sustainability challenges with regard to energy conservation, reduction of CO₂ emission and a generally more efficient use of resources. The principal connotation in this respect is increasing steel strength allowing to reduce component weight. However, it is also necessary considering in how far the modified steel properties interfere with typical manufacturing techniques established in the processing chain. A feasible method in this sense is a reverse approach starting from detailed knowledge of the manufacturing process and translating it back into the most suitable metallurgical and microstructural design of steel. Modifying steels towards better manufacturing performance typically involves innovative alloying and metallurgical processing concepts. Niobium and molybdenum are two of the most powerful alloying elements in helping to adapt microstructures and properties with regard to downstream manufacturing processes. This paper will highlight several examples how a reverse metallurgical engineering approach can be successfully applied to optimize the efficiency of subsequent manufacturing processes with a focus on the automotive industry.

Keywords

Automotive flat steel / Engineering steel / Stamping / Bending / Profiling / Press hardening / Welding / Cutting / Case carburizing