Influence of the temperature on the tensile behaviour of a modified 9Cr–1Mo T91 martensitic steel

The tensile behaviour of a modified 9Cr–1Mo T91 martensitic steel is investigated for temperatures between 300 and 700 K. Loading/unloading tensile tests are carried out to investigate the evolution of the tensile flow parameters and the different flow stress components with temperature. An increase in temperature reduces the ductility and the ultimate tensile stress. Three different deformation mechanisms are operative depending on the temperature. These mechanisms are discussed in terms of activation volume, dislocation motion and dynamic strain ageing.