A -- Method of Forming High Silicon Steels and High Silicon Steel Strip

Notice of Partnering and Licensing Opportunity: Method of Forming High Silicon Steels and High Silicon Steel Strip Description The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is developing know-how and intellectual property that can improve the economics of manufacturing steel and steel sheet products by eliminating the slab casting, reheating/homogenization, and hot-rolling unit operations while significantly reducing energy consumption. INL?s process appears to have particular application to silicon steel manufacturing, because the method of forming the steel allows for unique material properties and metal forming. Higher silicon varieties of steel (above 3.5 wt%), which are favored on the basis of increased resistivity and lower magnetostriction, are precluded from production by difficulties in cold rolling. INL?s novel process may enable fabrication of steel and steel strip with silicon (Si) levels of up to 6.5 wt%. This novel process may allow for: 1) higher Si levels in silicon steel strip (up to 6.5 wt%), 2) increased production rates, 3) reduced casting flaws such as nonuniform grain structure, centerline segregation and surface bleeds, 4) microstructural benefits, 5) significant decreases in segregation, solid solubility extension, suppression of secondary-phase precipitation, and formation of metastable phases and 6) reduced costs. Conventional silicon steels contain up to about 3.5 wt.% Si and are widely used in applications where magnetic resistances are of concern, such as transformers, power generators, and motors. Higher Si levels may allow for improved performance of these devices. The INL is soliciting interest from qualified industrial firms interested in participating in projects, further developing this technology, and/or commercializing this technology. An approved nondisclosure agreement will be require prior to discussing the technology. It is anticipated that the project will be carried out through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement with funding support being provided by the participant(s). The INL has several patents on the process as well as U.S. patent applications. These patents may be licensed exclusively or non-exclusively. The INL invites interested parties to contact us regarding the details of licensing and implementing this technology into an operation. Interested parties should respond within 30 days from the date of posting this notice. For questions regarding this technology, licensing, and working with the INL, please contact Jason Stolworthy: BUSINESS POINT OF CONTACT: Jason C. Stolworthy, J.D., M.S. (ChE) Telephone: 208-526-5976 E-Mail: Jason.Stolworthy@inl.gov