The change of solidification mechanism of ferritic-austenitic cast steel

Purpose: The paper presents the results of research on the microstructure changes of two grade of duplex cast steels with a varying carbon, with and without addition of copper. Design/methodology/approach: The addition of copper have a significant effect on the microstructure of analyzed cast steels. The changes in the mechanism of solidification was also observed during numerical simulation made in the FactSage softwares. Findings: The cause for undertaking the research were technological problems with hot cracking in bulk castings of duplex cast steel with a carbon content of approx. 0.06%. Practical implications: The research has shown a significant effect of increased carbon content on the ferrite and austenite microstructure morphology, while exceeding the carbon content of 0.06% results in a change of the shape of primary grains from equiaxial to columnar. Originality/value: Among the steel and cast steel resistant to corrosion most modern and dynamically developing group are ferritic-austenitic alloys, commonly known as duplex. Higher than austenitic steels, mechanical properties and good corrosion resistance in both overall and pitting make duplex steels irreplaceable material in the petrochemical industry, power, pulp and paper, food.