Introduction To Today's Ultrahigh-Strength Structural Steels

The features that distinguish the "ultrahigh-strength" steels from the other classes of highstrength constructional steel are described. The various families of ultrahigh-strength steel are discussed in terms of composition, mechanical properties, forms available, forming characteristics, and weldability. Recent developments in the technology are described, and illustrative applications are given. The families of ultrahigh-strength steel discussed include medium-carbon low-alloy hardenable, mediumand high-alloy hardenable, high-nickel maraging, hardenable stainless, and cold-rolled stainless. *Assistant Manager, Process and Physical Metallurgy, Battelle's Columbus Laboratories, Columbus, Ohio.