Characterizing solute-lean defects in superalloys

Abstract

Solute-lean defects, commonly called white spots, are frequently found in superalloys. These defects limit the service life of components made from superalloys, and alloy producers have devoted intense study to their characterization and elimination. Recent work shows that solute lean defects can be classified as “discrete,” “diffuse” and “mini,” and can be further classified into “clean” and “dirty” white spots. More than one formation mechanism for white spots is exemplified by the chemical and morphological differences between discrete, diffuse and mini white spots. White spot detection depends on the thermomechanically developed precipitation of hardening phases, coupled with specific etches that preferentially react to microstructure differences. The white spot defect is indigenous to the vacuum arc remelting process, but defect formation can be minimized by careful process control.