Co–Ni–Al–W γ/γ′ superalloy with Cr and Ti additions fabricated via laser fusion of elemental powders

Abstract

A Co-based superalloy (Co-0.20Ni-0.11Al-0.07W-0.04Cr-0.03Ti, mole fraction) was synthesized by laser powder-bed fusion of a blend of elemental powders. The as-built alloy shows a γ-FCC matrix where the high-melting Ti and Cr powders are fully dissolved, but the refractory W particles are only partially melted. Full dissolution of the W particles is achieved after homogenization at 1150 °C, resulting in a homogeneous, single-phase γ microstructure. Upon aging at 900 °C, a two-phase γ/γ′ microstructure forms, with a high-volume fraction of sub-micron γ′ precipitates with cuboidal shape. Compared to a control quaternary alloy without Cr and Ti fabricated by the same method, the present alloy has increased γ′ fraction and microhardness after aging for 300 h, maintaining a strong γ′ strengthening effect without forming γ′-depleted zone at grain boundaries. Micrometer-size γ′-precipitates at grain boundaries also shift the transition between diffusional and dislocation creep to lower stress levels, by inhibiting diffusional creep and grain-boundary sliding. However, overall creep resistance is lowered, consistent with a reduction of lattice mismatch due to Cr additions and rafting of γ′ precipitates. Furthermore, Cr and Ti additions improve oxidation resistance at 900 °C, due to the formation of a continuous Cr-, Ti- and Al-rich oxide layer.