SPECIAL STEELS; CRYOGENIC PROCESS FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF; USE OF SPECIAL STEELS IN A SALINE AND/OR HIGH-PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT

摘要

The present invention provides special steels and processes for obtaining improved mechanical properties, including ultimate tensile strength, yield point, elastic strain strength and hardness. The invention is particularly of use in the case of SAE 4140 steels, which, by means of cryogenic-treatment processes, acquire improved desirable properties for use in the production of components and/or equipment subject to extreme conditions such as saline and/or high-pressure environments. The invention affords an increase in yield point of around 8% and an increase in elastic strength of around 53%. The invention improves properties that are fundamental to the performance of components and structures already designed, allowing the use thereof under more severe conditions and/or at greater depths.