Structure and mechanical properties of hot-deformed low-carbon martensitic steel

The structural changes in low-carbon martensitic 15Kh2G2NMFBA steel induced by its hot forging in the temperature range 1150–850°C have been studied. The calculated cracking resistance parameter I_c is in agreement with its experimental value. A relation is found between the lath sizes in the martensite structure and the change in the impact toughness characteristics. A combined regime of hot deformation and hot treatment of the low-carbon martensitic steel is proposed to form submicrometer-sized structural elements and high strength and impact toughness characteristics.