Abstract: A high strength bainitic steel and a process for producing seamless pipes for OCTG applications are described. In particular, the advantages ensuing to the steel of the invention are the improvement in strength-toughness over tempered martensitic steels, and a simplified thermal treatment. Quenching is not necessary and by avoiding the quenching treatment the microstructure results far more homogeneous, which allows thick walled tubes to be produced. For the same steel composition, in comparison to conventional tempered martensitic structures, a better combination of strength and toughness can be achieved, in particular by tempering as rolled carbide-free bainitic structures.

Abstract: Steel compositions contain micro-alloying additions of boron and titanium, with yield strength of at least 100 ksi (690 MPa), excellent toughness and good weldability. Boron additions are used to increase hardenability. Strong nitride formers, such as titanium, may be added to the steel composition in order to prevent boron nitrides from forming. These compositions may be cooled from hot rolling in air or using accelerated cooling. After air cooling, the composition may be quenched or quenched and tempered. The compositions are suitable for high strength line pipes (for example, X100 in API 5L standard) and other applications.

Abstract: A high strength bainitic steel and a process for producing seamless pipes for OCTG applications are described. In particular, the advantages ensuing to the steel of the invention are the improvement in strength-toughness over tempered martensitic steels, and a simplified thermal treatment. Quenching is not necessary and by avoiding the quenching treatment the microstructure results far more homogeneous, which allows thick walled tubes to be produced. For the same steel composition, in comparison to conventional tempered martensitic structures, a better combination of strength and toughness can be achieved, in particular by tempering as rolled carbide-free bainitic structures.