Numerical Simulation of Recrystallization and Phase Transformation Process of 460 MPa Grade Heavy Ship Steel Plate

Abstract

The investigation explores the relationship between deformation, recrystallization, and phase transformation of 460 MPa grade heavy ship steel plate under the thermo mechanical control process. A coupled model integrating the hyperbolic sine Arrhenius equation, Avrami equation, and time-temperature-transformation curve is developed to simulate the 14-pass rolling and cooling process. Key findings reveal that recrystallization does not occur when the reduction reaches 22% and the temperature drops below 1120 °C. This conclusion provides crucial guidance for the regulation of actual production process parameters. In actual operation, producers can accurately control the thinning degree of the rolling stage according to this result, ensure that the temperature conditions meet the requirements, and ensure the stability of product quality. During cooling, a rate of 20–30 °C s⁻¹ to 500 °C followed by air cooling produces a microstructure comprising 58% ferrite and 42% bainite. This optimized microstructure improves the toughness of the steel plate, and provides a practical operation guide for the on-site production of wide and thick steel plates, helping industrial upgrading and development.