Simulation of the precipitation of sigma phase in duplex stainless steels

The precipitation of sigma phase within the ferrite component of a duplex stainless steel has been simulated using a two-dimensional computer model which takes into account the partitioning of alloy elements between ferrite and austenite. The model is based on a cellular automaton and, despite having a rather simple set of transition rules, is able to simulate changes in the volume fractions of the austenite, ferrite, and sigma phases. The microstructures produced are similar in appearance to those in the real system. Comparison of the model and the real system may assist in the assessment of the various phenomena occurring. Use is made of the model to examine many of the factors that might conceivably be harnessed to retard precipitation of the sigma phase in duplex stainless steels.