The uniformity of the mechanical properties, especially elongation and impact toughness, were compared between steel A, which was deoxidized with Ti-Zr, and steel B, which was deoxidized with Al. Microstructural observations, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses were conducted using an optical microscope, a scanning electron microscope and a transmission electron microscope, respectively. Results showed that sub-micron and nano-sized complex oxides were obtained by the combined deoxidation of Ti-Zr. The stability of the mechanical properties of steel A was better than that of steel B. The elongation and impact toughness of steel A were enhanced relative to those of steel B. This was attributed to spheroidization and the dispersed distribution of MnS inclusions in the matrix of steel A.

Welding thermal cycle simulation with the heat input of 12~25 kJ/cm and practical welding were undertaken to investigate the weldability of a Zr-Ti microalloyed pipeline steel X120. The microstructure in the simulated coarse-grained heat-affected zone was predominantly bainite. The Vickers hardness and room temperature impact toughness of simulated coarse-grained heat-affected zone is 276~297 (HV10) and 208~225 J, respectively. These results indicated that the X120 steel had good weldability. Practical plate welding with the heat input of 21 kJ/cm also showed that the Zr-Ti microalloyed pipeline steel X120 had high yeild strength (895 MPa) and low temperature (-30°C) impact toughness (183 J, 204 J and 208 J in the fusion line, coarse-grained heat-affected zone and fine-grained heat-affected zone, respectively).

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