Modelling solid solution hardening in stainless steels

The solid solution hardening of stainless steels is studied by using the Labusch–Nabarro relation. Models are evaluated in order to predict the mechanical properties from chemical composition, solution hardening misfit parameters, grain size, ferrite content and product thickness. A data source of six grades of steels is used for the modelling. Both austenitic and duplex stainless steels are covered including more than 1100 batches, which are subjected to multiple regression analyses. The models are compared with earlier studies and can be used as tools in material optimisation.