Multi-field coupled numerical simulation of microstructure evolution during the hot rolling process of GCr15 steel rod

In this paper, based on finite element (FE) software MSC.Marc, a multi-field coupled FE model is established to investigate the 18-pass hot rolling process of GCr15 steel rod. Thermal, mechanical and microstructural phenomena during the rolling process are coupled in the model. In this model, the microstructure evolution of GCr15 Steel is described by some empirical equations which are obtained using the Gleeble-3800 thermomechanical simulator, and a MSC.Marc subprogram is designed to predict the evolution of recrystallization behavior and austenite grain size. With the aid of the model, the paper analyzes detailedly the distribution and evolution of microscopic field-variables in rolled piece during the whole rolling process of GCr15 steel rod. Predicted values of grain size show good agreement with measured ones. The current model is beneficial to understand the effect of recrystallization behavior and control the microstructure evolution during hot rod rolling process.