Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference:	GR/R74765/01
Title:	Optimisation of Microtexture and Magnetic Properties in Non-Oriented Electrical Steels
Principal Investigator:	Randle, Professor V
Other Investigators:	Miodownik, Professor M
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:	Cogent Power Ltd Geo L Scott & Co Ltd. Sankey Laminations Ltd Surahammars Bruks AB
Department:	Materials Engineering
Organisation:	Swansea University
Scheme:	Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts:	01 January 2003	Ends:	31 December 2005	Value (£):	143,855
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:	Materials Characterisation Materials Processing
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:	Manufacturing
Related Grants:
Panel History:
Summary on Grant Application Form
The overall aim of the project is to improve the product efficiency of non-oriented grades of electrical steels through refined processing routes. The proposal provides an ideal chance to develop a strategic interaction with industry whereby a real industrial need is allied with enhanced scientific understanding of materials processing. The research programme will consist initially of performing a test matrix of thermomechanical treatments, carefully designed to take account of current plant practice, wherein annealing temperature, level of cold reduction and final annealing temperature are varied in a systematic manner. Subsequent measurements of microstructure and microtexture evolution on the matrix will be obtained by state-of-the-art electron back-scatter diffraction analysis, and allied to a custom-designed three-dimensional computer model of grain growth. This combined experimental/modelling will explore ways in which the desired microtexture and grain boundary properties can be obtained. A particular advantage of the model is its ability to run time backwards in order to pinpoint key local mechanisms. Deliverables from the project will include recommendation of incremental, energy efficient improvements to industrial processing practice, optimisation of microstructure and microtexture for magnetic properties and a sound scientific understanding of how combined grain growth and microtexture characteristics develop.
Key Findings
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Organisation Website:	http://www.swan.ac.uk