A Novel Approach to Model Static Recrystallization of Austenite During Hot Rolling of Nb Microalloyed Steel. Part I: Precipitate-Free Case

A physically based model is developed to describe static recrystallization during the hot rolling of Nb microalloyed austenite. A key feature of the model is a detailed description of the recrystallization nucleation process; the model predicts the recrystallization incubation time as well as the time evolution of the recrystallization nucleation rate. In addition, the effects of static recovery and solute drag on the growth of the recrystallized grains are captured. The predicted recrystallization kinetics and recrystallized grain size are shown to be in good agreement with published data.