Abstract: Disclosed herein are TRIP (transformation induced plasticity) steel alloy thin metal strips or, stated differently, high strength, high ductility steel alloy thin metal strips formed of a composition described herein, being substantially free or free of aluminum. In being substantially free, the aluminum content is equal to or less than 0.01% by weight.

Abstract: A hot rolled light-gauge martensitic steel sheet made by the steps comprising: (a) preparing a molten steel melt comprising: (i) by weight, between 0.20% and 0.35% carbon, less than 1.0% chromium, between 0.7% and 2.0% manganese, between 0.10% and 0.50% silicon, between 0.1% and 1.0% copper, less than 0.05% niobium, less than 0.5% molybdenum, and silicon killed containing less than 0.01% aluminum, and (ii) the remainder iron and impurities resulting from melting; (b) solidifying at a heat flux greater than 10.0 MW/m2 and cooling the molten melt into a steel sheet less than 2.0 mm in thickness in a non-oxidizing atmosphere to below 1080° C. and above Ar3 temperature at a cooling rate greater than 15° C./s; and (c) hot rolling the steel sheet to between 15% and 50% reduction and rapidly cooling.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are TRIP (transformation induced plasticity) steel alloy thin metal strips or, stated differently, high strength, high ductility steel alloy thin metal strips formed of a composition described herein, being substantially free or free of aluminum. In being substantially free, the aluminum content is equal to or less than 0.01% by weight.

Abstract: Thermoplastic sealants and methods for forming a joint, such as a weld joint, between one or more structural members using thermoplastic sealants are provided. The thermoplastic sealants have melting temperatures lower than the melting temperature of at least one of the structural members. The thermoplastic sealants may further include fillers, and are disposed between faying surfaces of the structural members. The sealants can fill the spaces between the structural members to prevent the entry of chemicals, moisture, debris and other substances.

Abstract: A sealant for a weld joint and an associated weld joint and method are provided. The sealant includes aluminum and germanium and is characterized by a melting temperature that is lower than the melting temperature of the structural member that is joined. The sealant, which is disposed between faying surfaces of the structural members, can fill the spaces between the structural members to prevent the entry of chemicals, moisture, debris, and other substances, thereby reducing the likelihood of corrosion of the joint or structural members at the interface. Further, the sealant can be diffusion bonded to the faying surfaces, for example, by the heat generated during the joining process.

Abstract: The life of ceramic SPF dies can be enhanced significantly by plasma spray application of a cordierite glaze on the forming surface. The preferred glaze has a coefficient of thermal expansion close to or matching with the ceramic of the die, and, typically, is a 2•2•5 MAS system including 2-10 mol % TiO2 (or above 8 wt %).

Abstract: The life of ceramic SPF dies can be enhanced significantly by plasma spray application of a cordierite glaze on the forming surface. The preferred glaze has a coefficient of thermal expansion close to or matching with the ceramic of the die, and, typically, is a 2•2•5 MAS system including 2-10 mol % TiO2 (or above 8 wt %).