In-situ observation on austenite grain growth of a Nb microalloyed high-carbon steel

It was reported in previous studies that the growth of austenite was inhibited by the pinning effect of Nb containing precipitates and the solute dragging effect of solute Nb. The effect of Nb on austenite grain growth of high carbon steel was investigated by laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM). Microstructure evolution during heating process of the tested steel was observed by in situ observation. The results show that even without the pinning effect of Nb containing precipitates (at high temperatures), Nb can hinder the growth of austenite grains due to the solute dragging effect of Nb. Two models were used to fit the austenite grain growth process, and the Beck growth models of Nb microalloyed high carbon steels at different heating temperatures were established. The austenite grain growth kinetics model considering the influence of heating temperature and holding time can accurately predict the austenite grain growth process of Nb microalloyed high carbon steels.