Quality	DIN EN Standard	Material No.	Possible Surface Coating:
HCT590X	10338	1.0996	+ZE according to DIN EN 10152 (electrolytically galvanized)
HCT590X	10346	1.0996	+Z, +ZF, +ZA, +ZM (Hot-dip coating)

Yield point Rp0,2 (MPa)	Tensil Strength Rm (MPa)	Elongation A80 (in %)	Strain Hardening Exponent n 10-UE	Bake-Hardening-Index BH2
330 – 430	≥ 590	≥ 20	0,14	30

HCT590X is a state-of-the-art cold-rolled dual-phase steel specified according to the DIN EN 10338 standard. This steel type offers an outstanding combination of high strength and excellent formability, making it ideal for various industrial applications, especially in the automotive sector. HCT590X features a specially developed microstructure that optimizes its mechanical properties, making it a preferred material for many applications.

The microstructure of HCT590X consists of a ferrite matrix with embedded martensitic phases. This dual-phase structure provides an optimal balance between strength and ductility. The ferrite content ensures high formability and energy absorption during plastic deformation, while the martensite content increases strength. HCT590X achieves a tensile strength of approximately 590 MPa, making it ideal for applications requiring both strength and formability.

The production of HCT590X follows a carefully controlled process. First, the steel is hot-rolled and then precisely cooled to achieve the desired microstructure. This is followed by a cold-rolling process that further refines the fine-grained structure and enhances the mechanical properties of the steel. A final heat treatment ensures that the steel achieves the optimal balance between strength and ductility.

In addition to the cold-rolled HCT590X variant, a continuously hot-dip coated version is also available, designated as HCT600X according to DIN EN 10346. This variant provides additional benefits, particularly in terms of corrosion resistance. The hot-dip coating process involves immersing the steel in a bath of molten zinc or a zinc alloy, forming a protective zinc layer on the steel surface. This coating significantly enhances corrosion resistance, extending the service life of components and improving their performance in corrosive environments. HCT600X also offers a slightly higher tensile strength of approximately 600 MPa, providing additional strength while maintaining comparable forming properties.

HCT590X is widely used in the automotive industry, where stringent material property requirements apply. Due to its high strength and excellent formability, this steel is particularly well-suited for manufacturing structural car components that require high energy absorption in the event of a collision. Examples include door reinforcements, bumpers, and safety cell structures. The continuously hot-dip coated HCT600X variant is ideal for applications that require both mechanical performance and high corrosion resistance, such as outer body panels and underbody components.

The production and application of HCT590X and HCT600X comply with the strict requirements of the DIN EN 10338 and DIN EN 10346 standards. These standards ensure that the steel meets high quality and performance requirements. Regular testing and monitoring throughout the production process guarantee consistent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, ensuring the steel’s suitability for its intended applications.

With the increasing demand for lighter, stronger, and more formable materials, especially in the automotive industry, HCT590X is becoming increasingly important. Its ability to enhance the structural integrity of vehicles while reducing weight contributes to the development of more energy-efficient and safer automobiles. The continuous advancement of manufacturing and coating technologies will further optimize the properties of dual-phase steels like HCT590X and HCT600X, unlocking new application possibilities.

In summary, HCT590X offers an exceptional combination of strength and ductility, while the hot-dip coated HCT600X variant provides additional corrosion protection. Both steel grades meet the requirements of DIN EN 10338 and DIN EN 10346, ensuring consistently high quality and performance, making them preferred materials for modern manufacturing processes.