The Role of Steel in Defense

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Since the Industrial Revolution, iron and steel have become the most intimate allies of defense equipment. The parade of mighty tactical vehicles breaking ground on the battlefield represents the backbone of steel that supports military operations. Steel has been transformed into numerous "helmet breastplates" for these vehicles. Have you ever considered that, over the past two hundred years, the development of military steel has never ceased? While armored vehicles may appear to be a single color, they embody a rich history of innovation with dozens of models and hundreds of specifications, all of which play a crucial role in the upgrading of military equipment.

The Pursuit of High Strength

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The relentless pursuit of high strength is a common goal among national military steel manufacturers. For instance, tanks require armor plates that can withstand the immense forces of crossing obstacles, explosive impacts, and extreme service environments. The technical requirements for these materials are exceptionally high, far exceeding the strength levels and thicknesses of general structural steel. Lion Metal provides a range of specialized steel grades and materials tailored for armored vehicles. Our rotating turret steel utilizes internationally advanced alloy designs and production processes, ensuring not only high strength but also exceptional toughness and corrosion resistance. This commitment to quality and performance is vital for the safety and effectiveness of military operations.

Challenges in Weldability

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As the strength of steel increases, the presence of alloy elements, carbon equivalents, and crack sensitivity also rises, making welding more challenging. High-hardness steel presents significant difficulties in welding, often requiring the steel to be rolled into many thin plates. These plates are then overlapped with other steel plates of varying hardness and secured to the main deck using screws. This complex process highlights the challenges faced by military enterprises in maintaining the integrity and durability of welded structures in high-performance applications.

Stealth as a Development Trend

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Traditional steel possesses certain magnetic properties, which can be detrimental for specialized armored vehicles designed for stealth operations. The magnetic signature can make these vehicles easily detectable by enemy magnetic detectors or vulnerable to magnetic weapons. Therefore, it is essential for special armored vehicles to undergo degaussing to mitigate these risks. The use of low magnetic and non-magnetic steel significantly enhances stealth capabilities. Non-magnetic steel is a functional material with a wide range of applications in special armored vehicles and other military equipment, ensuring that they remain undetectable and effective in the field.