Microalloy Addition Strategies for Increased Yield Strength of Bearing Steels

Abstract

This study addresses the challenge of enhancing yield strength in wind turbine roller bearings by exploring microalloy additions. Utilizing predictive software, three trial compositions were recommended to improve AISI 4150 grade steel: 0.1 wt.% V microalloy, 0.05 wt.% V with 0.05 wt.% Nb, and high-Si with 0.1wt.%V microalloy. Microstructural analysis and hardness measurements were conducted on both as-cast and thermally cycled alloys. Subsequent compression testing and rolling trials provided insights into mechanical properties and hardenability. Results revealed superior hardenability in the V alloy as compared to the V-Nb microalloy, and a remarkable 20% increase in yield strengths was observed in the Si-V microalloyed steels versus the base material. This research demonstrates the efficacy of microalloy additions in addressing yield strength limitations in critical wind turbine components.

Department(s)

Materials Science and Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Bearing steels; Hardenability tests; Microalloyed steel; Yield Strength

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2025 Association for Iron and steel Technology, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2024

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