The Effects of Alloying Elements on the Continuous Cooling Transformation Behavior of 2¼Cr-1Mo Steels

Chromium-molybdenum steels are largely used in the energy industry at temperatures up to 540°C (1000°F), which makes microstructure and its transformation during thermomechanical treatment extremely important in establishing the properties of such steels. 

Used in fossil-fired power-generating plants, aircraft power plants, chemical processing plants, and petroleum-processing plants, 2¼Cr-1Mo steel usually has a bainite microstructure. When ferrite formation occurs during processing of heavy sections or insufficiently alloyed Cr-Mo steel, it may be deleteriously affected for the intended application.   

A continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagram is a critical tool for predicting microstructural transformation in steel, providing valuable data for the proper design and thermomechanical processing of Cr-Mo steel alloys. 

Element’s Engaged Experts have in-depth knowledge of low alloy steels and extensive expertise in conducting microstructure analysis to ensure the successful application of materials in industrial practice. 

The following paper investigates the effects of alloying elements on the continuous cooling transformation behavior of 2¼ Cr-Mo steels. In this research, the authors use dilatometry and metallography to develop CCT diagrams and determine the change in length, microstructure, and macrohardness for each CCT sample examined. 

The systematic determination and statistical analysis of the effects of carbon, manganese, chromium, and molybdenum on 2¼ Cr-1Mo CCT diagrams is also described. To know more about the experimental procedure and the results of the investigation, download the article below or contact us to speak with our experts.