Question

Which of these is not a function of alloy steels?

(a) Increases strength

(b) Improves ductility

(c) Reduces cost

(d) Improves machinability

The question was posed to me in an international level competition.

My question comes from Alloy Steels topic in section Diffusion in Solids & Ferrous Materials of Engineering Material & Metallurgy

Answer 1

Correct answer is (c) Reduces cost

To explain I would say: Alloy steels are used to improve properties such as strength, hardness, ductility, grain structure, and machinability, among others. This, however, results in increased costs due to multiple elements involved in the process.