Properties and Applications of Bainitic Railway Steel Prepared by Mechanical Alloying

Abstract

Researchers face a significant challenge in designing low-carbon bainite rail steel, which offers better mechanical properties and corrosion resistance than high-carbon pearlitic steel tracks. High-carbon bainitic steel takes a long time to manufacture, so low-carbon bainite steel is preferred for heavy-haul railway tracks due to its shorter production time and cost-effectiveness. The steel is prepared through a specific heat treatment process, and although carbide formation is limited at lower temperatures, precipitation hardening is used to improve its properties. Mechanical alloying with the elements like Si, Ni, and Co is also considered to enhance further the mechanical and chemical properties of the bainitic rail steel. This chapter aims to find an economical solution to reduce accidents caused by the failure of pearlitic steel and improve safety in rail transportation.