BROADER POSSIBLE USES FOR THE THERMOMECHA NICAL TREATMENT OF PLATES

Objective. The first broad application of thermomechanically rolled (T M) steels was as large-diameter pipes for oil and gas pipelines. Due t o their superior technological and processing properties they are find ing increasing acceptance in the fields of structural steelwork and sh ipbuildung. Discussed is the current use of thermomechanical rolling f or plates, through which it is possible to achieve special combination s of properties. Summary. TM steels have been accepted in the off shor e sector for several years now, and they are being used for the first time in tank and pressure vessel manufacture. The improved weldability of TM steels leads to cost advantages for fabricators, especially whe re large plate thicknesses are concerned. However, as the plate thickn ess increases, plate producers have more severe requirements to meet i n order to achieve the required strength properties with the aid of th ermomechanical rolling based on low carbon and alloy contents. Plate t hicknesses of around 100 mm and widths of over 4 000 mm additionally n ecessitate powerful rolling stands and cooling facilities, elaborate p rocess technology, and precise process control. The impressive example s of bridges and buildings constructed with TM steels demonstrate that the possible uses for TM steels will continue to expand through syste matic development and investment.