1. The possibility of considerably accelerating recrystallization (i. e. process) annealing of low-carbon steel by heating at above 1000°C (1800°F)/second to temperatures around the critical has been established. 2. Holding for a few seconds after rapid high temperature heating completes recrystallization, produces a fine-grained structure and high mechanical properties.Rapid cooling (e.g. water quenching) after such holding prevents quench-aging effects and the steel preserves high ductility and strength. 3. In organizing rapid process annealing of low-carbon steel, due regard must be paid to the kinetics of phase changes in rapid heating and cooling.