High temperature creep in precipitation strengthened Cu-2Fe alloy

Abstract

Results of an investigation of creep in a Cu-2Fe alloy strengthened by coherent γ iron particles in the temperature region 673–873 K and the stress region 10–95 MN m⁻² are presented and discussed. It is found that, most probably, the Coble diffusion deformation mechanism associated with a threshold stress dominates at low stresses. The thermally activated cutting of γ iron particles, dependent on the creation of a new interface area, has been suggested as another possible mechanism controlling the steady state creep rate in all external conditions. This mechanism probably dominates at least at high stresses. The intergranular creep fracture in the alloy investigated is probably controlled by the same mechanisms as creep itself.