Electron microscopy and x-ray spectral microanalysis of types and chemical propeties inclusions of the railway axis from a continuous billet

Abstract

Purpose. Analysis of status and chemical composition of non-metallic inclusions of raw railway truck axle shafts steel using electron microscopy and X-ray spectral microanalysis for the improvement of the throughout technology of the axles production. Methodology. Study of phase composition and type of non-metallic inclusions in axles shaft steel was carried out with modern equipment and method of X-ray spectral microanalysis for quantitative and qualitative data. Findings. The analysis of the elements on chemical composition on EA1N steel and of non-metallic inclusions on physical and mechanical properties of railway axles made by rolling of continuous cast billt of 470 mm diameter. The types and composition of non-metallic inclusions were studied with electron microscopy and X-ray spectral microanalysis. Results can be applied for improvement of steel refining and alloying technology for railway wheel axles production. Originality. There were discovered the original data about the types and chemical compositions of nonmetallic heterophasic inclusions in railway axis metal using the electronic microscopy and X-ray microanalysis. The obtained research results about formations of multiphase inclusions were proved using the phase equilibrium charts consiolering oxide, oxide-sulphide mineral phases. Practical value. The results of electron microscopy and X-ray spectral microanalysis are important to understand and improve the throughput technology of refining and alloying of EA1N steel for railway axle shafts. Keywords: railway axle, railway truck, axle shaft, steel chemical composition, continuous casting billet, mechanical properties, non-metallic inclusions