Expansion of the xpand^® product range

Hot-dip zinc coated dual phase steels offer a favorable combination of relatively low yield strength, high tensile strength and strong hardening. This combination of properties makes them excellent for use in car bodies. The low yield strength allows the manufacture of complex geometries with relatively low forming forces. The high hardening exponent in conjunction with the high tensile strength makes it possible to create elements that absorb significantly more energy in the event of a vehicle crash than elements made of conventional, microalloyed steels. These advantages are further improved by extra hardening when the paint is baked in (bake hardening effect).

In order to guarantee a high level of process reliability, also during critical forming steps, Salzgitter Flachstahl has enhanced its multiphase steels. This new multiphase steel generation has the term xpand® added to its name.

The term xpand^® is based on the Latin word expandere (= extend, expand) and stands for a guaranteed, increased capacity for hole expansion in the steel.   
The xpand^® steels' forming characteristics are optimized by the higher hole expansion ratio and enable the manufacture of more complex component geometries.
These properties are achieved by the selective creation of hard, strengthening  martensite islands in the ferritic matrix of these steels. The selective cooling during the production and the corresponding chemical analysis make it possible to set the strength by using the proportion of martensite.
In this group, HCT780Xxpand^® is now also available. Here we guarantee a hole expansion ratio of 30%.

This means the expanded product range of xpand® steels looks as follows:

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