Use of graphite chromium cast iron in hot strip mill

In this paper, we will point out the good properties of the new material called graphitic chromium iron and show that it can lead to an optimised compromise between oxidation, wear and thermal behaviour allowing its use as work roll in the last stands of the finishing section of HSM. We will also summarise the results of a study aimed to examine the graphite formation conditions in high chromium iron and the effect of an austenite de-stabilisation heat treatment on the graphitisation. The amount and volume of free graphite may be dramatically influenced by a suitable heat treatment, which increases the thermal properties. Some manufacturing problems associated with the residual stresses of that new grade will also be explained.