Quality	Standard	Material No.	Possible Surface Coating:
HCT780X	DIN EN 10338	1.0943	+ZE according to DIN EN 10152 (electrolytically galvanized)
HCT780X	DIN EN 10346	1.0943	+Z, +ZF, +ZA, +ZM (Hot-dip coating)

Testing direction	Yield point Rp0,2 (MPa)	Tensil Strength Rm (MPa)	Elongation A80 (in %)	Bake-Hardening-Index BH2
longitudinal test specimen	440 – 550	≥ 780	≥ 14	30

HCT780X is a high-performance cold-rolled dual-phase steel specified according to the DIN EN 10338 and 10346 standards. This steel type is characterized by an excellent combination of high strength and good formability, making it ideal for demanding industrial applications, particularly in automotive manufacturing. The unique microstructure of HCT780X, which includes both ferrite and martensite and possibly bainite, provides its outstanding mechanical properties.

The microstructure of HCT780X consists of a ferritic base structure with martensitic islands embedded in it. This dual-phase structure ensures an optimal balance between strength and ductility. The ferrite content provides high formability and energy absorption during plastic deformation, while the martensite increases the strength. In some cases, bainite may also appear as an additional phase, further enhancing the strength and mechanical properties. HCT780X achieves a tensile strength of approximately 780 MPa, making it ideal for applications requiring both high strength and good formability.

HCT780X is produced through a precisely controlled process. First, the steel is hot-rolled and then cooled to achieve the desired microstructure. A cold rolling process follows to refine the fine-grain structure and enhance the steel’s mechanical properties. A final heat treatment ensures the steel reaches the optimal balance between strength and ductility.

In addition to the cold-rolled version, HCT780X is also available as a continuously galvanized steel according to DIN EN 10346. This galvanizing process involves continuously dipping the steel into a bath of molten zinc or a zinc alloy, creating a protective zinc layer on the surface of the steel. This coating provides excellent corrosion resistance, extending the lifespan of components and enhancing their performance in corrosive environments. Thus, the galvanized version of HCT780X combines the mechanical advantages of dual-phase steel with increased corrosion resistance.

Compared to HCT590X and its galvanized version HCT600X, HCT780X offers higher tensile strength, making it ideal for applications requiring even higher strength. HCT590X has a tensile strength of about 590 MPa, while HCT600X has a slightly higher tensile strength of about 600 MPa. Both steels use the dual-phase structure to achieve a good balance between strength and formability. However, HCT780X, with its higher strength, has a broader range of applications, particularly where maximum protection and strength are required. The galvanized versions also provide high corrosion resistance, expanding their usability in corrosive environments.

HCT780X is widely used in automotive manufacturing, where the highest material properties are demanded. Due to its high strength and good formability, this steel is particularly suitable for manufacturing body parts that require high energy absorption in the event of a crash. Examples include door reinforcements, bumpers, and safety cells. The continuously galvanized variant of HCT780X is ideal for applications that require both mechanical performance and high corrosion resistance, such as exterior body parts and underbody components.

The production and application of HCT780X follow the strict requirements of the DIN EN 10338 and DIN EN 10346 standards. These standards ensure that the steel meets high-quality and performance criteria. Regular testing and controls throughout the production process guarantee that the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the steel are consistently maintained, making it suitable for the intended applications.

With the growing demand for lighter, stronger, and more formable materials, particularly in the automotive industry, HCT780X is becoming increasingly important. Its ability to maximize the structural integrity of vehicles while reducing weight contributes to the development of more energy-efficient and safer vehicles. Ongoing advancements in manufacturing processes and coating technologies will further optimize the properties of dual-phase steels like HCT780X and open up new application possibilities.

In summary, HCT780X offers an outstanding combination of strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance. Adherence to the DIN EN 10338 and DIN EN 10346 standards ensures consistently high quality and performance, making it a preferred choice for modern manufacturing processes.