The formation mechanism of δ-ferrite and its evolution behavior in M50NiL steel

Residual δ-ferrite is ubiquitous in M50NiL bearing steel and seriously deteriorates impact toughness. In the present work, the formation mechanism of δ-ferrite in M50NiL steel and the influence of element segregation on its formation process were investigated. The residual δ-ferrite was proved to form directly from the final liquid phase at the end of solidification due to serious segregation of Mo and V elements. Calculation results indicate that the segregation of Mo and V elements expanded the “L + δ'' two-phase region and stabilized δ-ferrite. Due to the high concentration of Mo and V, large-sized V-rich MC and Mo-rich M2C carbides would precipitate in δ-ferrite at 900–1200 °C if the cooling rate is slow. When kept at 1200 °C for no more than 30 min, Mo and V elements derived from the decomposition of large-sized carbides are preferentially diffused into δ-ferrite, enhancing the stability of δ-ferrite. To achieve the effective elimination of δ-ferrite in M50NiL steel, it is necessary to keep the ingot at 1200 °C for at least 20 h.