Abstract: | A study has been carried out on an Fe–0.11% C–1.58% Si–0.4% Mn-dual phase steel. The dual-phase microstructures and properties are significantly affected by both the intercritical temperature and cooling rate from (α + γ) field. Upon rapid cooling (water or oil quench) from the temperature range 735–820°C, the structure comprises ferrite + martensite. On the other hand, slow cooling (air cooling) from the temperature range 735–820°C produces microstructures containing ferrite + martensite + pearlite/bainite and more favourable mechanical properties as: σ0,2 = 281–296 MPa, σUTS = 632–690 MPa, TE = 26–30% and continuous yielding behaviour. |