The Fatigue Behaviour of the Unidirectionally Solidified Fibrous Fe–Fe₂B Eutectic Alloy

Abstract

The fatigue behaviour of the directionally solidified fibrous Fe–Fe₂B eutectic has been investigated at room temperature and 500° C (775 K). Optical metallography, scanning electron microscopy, and, where necessary, in situ observations of the fatigue process have been employed to determine the mode of fatigue deformation at both temperatures. The fatigue resistance at 500° C is superior to that at room temperature; this is shown to result from an increased resistance to crack propagation at 500° C.