Making super tough stainless steel even tougher -Sheffield Hallam University Case Study

30th November 2016

'The project with Sheffield Hallam University provides important opportunities for us to co-operate with academic expertise.

' Mike Andrews, director, AI Materials The client AI Materials Ltd The challenge Steel company AI Materials had to meet a new requirement to increase the mechanical strength and toughness of their super duplex stainless steel, which is used in industrial pipes at low temperatures. The company approached Sheffield Hallam University to access our materials knowledge and experimental capabilities. How we worked together By tapping into expertise from our funded Innovation Futures project, we made a comprehensive literature review on the relationship between the microstructure and the mechanical properties of duplex stainless steels. We also carried out initial materials analysis on samples provided by the company, looking at the microstructure, micro-hardness, and fracture mechanisms. The result The results of our experiments and literature review have improved AI Materials' R&D capability and knowledge of advanced stainless steel materials. The company has asked us to conduct further in-lab and onsite experimental trials to improve the combined mechanical properties of the steel. Mike Andrews, a director at AI Materials said, 'The project with Sheffield Hallam University provides important opportunities for us to co-operate with academic expertise. It means we can access the advanced material analytical facilities to develop the techniques we're looking for. These experiences are valuable to strengthen our market compatibility.