Abstract

A finite element (FE) simulation model illustrating the stress relaxation test was established with the Abaqus ^TM software. The microstructural evolution of steel during relaxation includes the complex phenomena of recrystallization. While the compression introduces the planned deformation and stress into the test piece, subsequent softening relieves the stress and at the same time creates microstructural reconstitution and refinement. In this study, a model was developed to simulate the kinetics of static recrystallization taking place during holding, using a technique based on FE-simulation. The simulation results have been compared to the experimental stress relaxation data obtained on a Gleeble ^TM 3800 thermo-mechanical simulator. The model can be used to estimate the recrystallization kinetics throughout the test piece. In the future, these results can be used for estimating the required rolling forces for multi-pass roughing with reasonable accuracy, for instance. The modelling methodology can be extended to other steels too, with or without microalloying additions.