Abstract
KEYWORDS – Connecting rod, V-Ti precipitation, V-Ti microalloyed medium carbon steel, High fatigue strength, Lightweight connecting rod
ABSTRACT –
The development of high strength materials for automotive engine moving system has become a critical issue due to the trend of high horse power and down-size engines. As engine power and fuel efficiency are increased, a connecting rod, in particular, which converts a vertical movement of piston to rotary motion of crankshaft with more load has become important. Therefore, stiffness and high fatigue strength of connecting rod are great concern for entire engine performance as well as life time. In this study, high strength microalloyed steel with duplex added V, Ti has been developed, and its fatigue strength has been increased by 20% compare to conventional steels for connecting rod. Also hardening mechanism and durability, workability of developed high strength connecting rod were investigated.