Effect of long term aging on mechanical properties and microstructure of nickel base weld

Abstract

The mechanical properties of a Ni base weld have been examined after long term aging in the temperature range 600–900°C. Impact testing revealed a substantial decrease in toughness after heat treatment at 600 and 700°C. In particular, after aging at 700°C there was a marked loss of ductility, which was associated with elongated particles appearing in the fracture surfaces. The concomitant microstructural changes occurring have been investigated using analytical electron microscopy. In material heat treated at 600°C for 10000 h, seven phases were identified: M₂₃C₆, MC, η, γ′, γ″, G, and δ. At 700°C, the following phases were distinguished after 3000 h: M₂₃C₆, MC, and η. After longer testing times G, γ′, and γ″, were formed. Whereas G, γ′, and γ″ formed intragranular needles, η formed intragranular laths or plates at 700°C. The minimum in ductility observed in material aged at 700°C can be explained in terms of copious intragranular precipitation of γ′, γ″, and η.

MST/1131