PROPERTIES OF DIRECT-CAST STEEL STRIPS PR ODUCED BY MEANS OF THE DOUBLE-ROLLER STRIP CASTING PROCESS

Objective. Test strips in gauges from 1 mm to 3 mm have been produced from deep-drawing steel, high-strength microalloyed steel, unalloyed q uality steel and stainless steels on different twin-roller strip casti ng lines on a laboratory and pilot scale. The test strips have been co ld-rolled without any hot deformation and subjected to the usual heat treatments. The strips have then been analysed for their technological properties. Summary. The test material has similar mechanical propert ies as conventionally produced hot strip. The more rapid solidificatio n during strip casting reduces microsegregation and brings about a fin e distribution of the inclusions which, in the case of stainless steel s, enhances the good corrosion resistance still further. Cold strip pr oduced from ferritic stainless steels has only a low amount of anisotr opy, such that it can also be used for formed parts for exposed applic ations. ''In-line'' treatment and regulation of the temperature of the thin strip between the casting rollers and coiler allow the propertie s of the strips to be controlled, thereby making it possible to develo p steel strips with new combinations of properties. Short production l ines and flexibility are further advantages of this casting technology . (E 29837).