Modelling of spatial distribution of segregations in large steel ingots by analysis of centimetric segregation maps

Mesosegregation appears during the solidification of low-alloyed steels at the scale of a few grains. It causes chemically segregated bands in forgings manufactured from steel ingots. As this may affect the mechanical properties of the produced parts, it is crucial to understand the formation of such segregation patterns. While both microsegregation and macrosegregation are well understood and can be readily characterized, little is known about the formation of mesosegregation. In this paper we present a data analysis method to identify the characteristic scales and patterns of mesosegregation. Segregation was mapped on centimetric samples, using micro X-Ray fluorescence (µXRF). The fine sampling grid used reveals segregation patterns at different scales. To identify and distinguish the mesoscale segregation patterns from smaller and larger present patterns, a numerical data analysis technique based on spatial filtering was used. It can identify characteristic scales of mesosegregation patterns on 2D serial cut samples, leading to 3D reconstruction. This approach combined with simulation studies, will ultimately pave the way to a comprehensive understanding of the formation of mesosegregation.