The Significance of Microstructure and Texture on Magnetic Properties of Non‐Oriented Silicon Steel: Strip Casting versus Conventional Process

Abstract

High‐performance nonoriented silicon steel can be produced by the novel strip casting process with a microstructure necessary for magnetic properties. In this regard, the significance of microstructure and texture on magnetic properties of nonoriented silicon steel are comparatively studied in strip‐casting process and conventional hot‐rolling process. The as‐cast strips are uniquely composed of fine equiaxed grains and coarse {100} columnar grains, whereas the hot‐rolled sheets are characterized by fine and uniform microstructure with random orientation. After cold rolling and recrystallization annealing, unfavorable {111} texture dominates the recrystallization texture in the conventional process because of compatible deformation effect of high density of grain boundaries. In contrast, coarse grain with pronounced {100} texture of annealed sheet is obtained via strip‐casting process, which is attributed to strong shear deformation and retention of {100} texture. Considering the synergistic benefits of texture and grain size, nonoriented silicon steel produced by strip casting exhibits superior magnetic properties with low magnetic anisotropy. The magnetic induction of nonoriented silicon steel produced by strip casting is intriguingly 0.06 T higher and the core loss is 0.4 W kg−1 lower than the conventional process. The current study provides practical guidance for processing of nonoriented silicon steel.

Evolution of the Shear Band in Cold-Rolling of Strip-Cast Fe-1.3% Si Non-Oriented Silicon Steel

“…B 50 of RD was 1.70 T and TD was 1.68 T, and the magnetic properties were improved. In Dou’s work [ 29 ], the best P 15/50 of RD/TD was 4.5/4.6 W/kg and corresponding B 50 along RD/TD was 1.78/1.76 T, and in An’s work [ 30 ], the best P 15/50 along RD/TD was 4.235/4.467 W/kg and corresponding B 50 along RD/TD was 1.798/1.743 T. By comparison, the magnetic properties in our study are superior by tuning the microstructure and favorable texture.…”

Investigation on Recrystallization Behavior of Cold‐Rolled Silicon Steel in Continuous Heating with Three‐Point Bending Testing

“…[ 1,2 ] The main performance requirements for nonoriented silicon steel are low iron loss and high magnetic induction. [ 3,4 ] The significance of low iron loss lies in its ability to conserve electricity and extend the operational lifespan of the motor. On the other hand, high magnetic induction plays a crucial role in reducing the size and weight of the motor core, thereby enhancing energy conversion efficiency.…”