Static Recrystallization Analysis and Simulation of the Residual Heat Normalizing Process of 55 Hub Bearing Steel

Systematic and pioneering exploration is conducted on the effect of postforging residual heat normalizing on the static recrystallization (SRX) and grain refinement of 55# hub bearing steel applied in automotive industry. Through dual‐pass hot compression tests, the impacts of deformation temperature (1040, 1100, 1160 °C), strain rate (0.1, 1, 10 s −1 ), interval time (5, 15, 60 s), and strain (0.05, 0.07, 0.1) are investigated. Key findings show that the recrystallization activation energy is determined as 233 623 J mol −1 , and kinetic and grain size models are developed. Higher deformation temperatures and strain rates promote SRX and grain refinement, enhancing material performance. Postforging normalizing notably accelerates recrystallization and refines grains, especially at higher temperatures. Extended normalizing time leads to a more uniform grain structure, improving strength and toughness. Treated steel exhibits a higher recrystallization volume fraction and better mechanical properties. Finite element simulations with Deform software validate the results, offering insights for optimizing forging and normalizing processes. This research provides a new basis for heat treatment optimization of 55# hub bearing steel.