Search Results (839)

The dissimilar joining of solid-solution-strengthened superalloys and precipitation-strengthened superalloys enables complementary performance synergy, holding significant application potential in the aerospace industry. This study investigated the transient liquid phase bonding of Hastelloy X and IN738 using a BNi-2 interlayer, focusing on the effects of bonding temperature and time on interfacial microstructure evolution and mechanical properties. The results demonstrated that achieving complete isothermal solidification is paramount for joint properties, a process governed by the synergistic control of bonding temperature and time. At lower temperatures (e.g., 1050 °C), the joint centerline contained an athermal solidification zone (ASZ) rich in hard and brittle Cr-rich (∼15.9 GPa) and Ni-rich borides, which served as the failure initiation site. As the ASZ was progressively eliminated with increasing temperature, a fully isothermal solidified zone (ISZ, ∼52 μm wide) consisting of γ-Ni formed at 1100 °C. Concurrently, Cr-Mo borides (∼9.8 GPa) precipitated within the diffusion-affected zone (DAZ) on the Hastelloy X side, becoming the new potential sites for crack initiation. Prolonging the holding time at 1100 °C not only ensured complete isothermal solidification but also promoted Mo diffusion, which improved the plasticity of the Cr-Mo borides and their interfacial bonding with the γ-Ni matrix (∼5.9 GPa). This synergistic optimization resulted in a significant increase in joint shear strength, achieving a maximum value of 587 MPa under the optimal condition of 1100 °C/40 min. Full article

This study investigates the microstructure and mechanical properties of a dissimilar joint formed by rotary friction welding, which joins TC4 titanium alloy to 304 stainless steel using an Inconel 718 interlayer. The welding parameters were as follows: a friction time of 9 s, a friction pressure of 160 MPa, an upset time of 2 s, a forging pressure of 250 MPa, and a rotational speed of 1400 rpm. Microstructural analysis revealed the formation of intermetallic compounds (IMCs), including Fe₂Ti, Ni₃Ti, NiCrFe, FeNi₃, Ti₂Ni, and FeNi, at the TC4/Inconel 718 interface, while Ni₃Ti and FeNi₃ IMCs were identified at the Inconel 718/304SS interface. The tensile tests demonstrated that the joint with the Inconel 718 interlayer (TC4/Inconel 718/304SS) achieved an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 717.73 MPa and an elongation of 13.05%. In contrast, the direct joint without the interlayer (TC4/304SS) exhibited a lower UTS of 631.58 MPa and a reduced elongation of 7.39%. Therefore, the introduction of the Inconel 718 interlayer significantly improved joint quality, increasing tensile strength by 13.64% and elongation by 76.59%. More importantly, the interlayer effectively inhibited the formation of brittle Ti-Fe intermetallic compounds, which are typically detrimental to joint performance. Full article

Inconel 718 is widely utilized in critical engineering sectors, particularly aerospace, owing to its exceptional creep resistance, corrosion resistance, and retention of mechanical strength at elevated temperatures. However, its high hardness, low thermal conductivity, and strong work-hardening tendency make it extremely difficult to machine using conventional techniques. Ultrasonic Vibration-Assisted Machining (UVAM) has emerged as an effective strategy to overcome these limitations by superimposing high-frequency, low-amplitude vibrations onto the cutting process. Depending on the vibration direction, UVAM can significantly change chip formation, tool–workpiece interaction, and surface integrity. In this study, the influence of three UVAM modes—longitudinal (Z-UVAM), feed-directional (X-UVAM), and multi-axial (XZ-UVAM)—on the machining behavior of Inconel 718 was systematically investigated. The findings reveal that XZ-UVAM provides the most advantageous outcomes, primarily due to its intermittent cutting mechanism. Compared with Conventional Machining (CM), XZ-UVAM reduced cutting forces by up to 43% and areal surface roughness by 37%, while generating surfaces with more uniform topographies and smaller peak-to-valley variations. Furthermore, UVAM enhanced subsurface microhardness as a result of the surface hammering effect, which may improve fatigue performance. XZ-UVAM also effectively minimized burr formation, demonstrating its potential for high-quality, sustainable, and efficient machining of Inconel 718. Full article

Inter-pass forging with different degrees of deformation during WAAM of Inconel 718 specimens (single-stage, three passes; two-stage, six passes) was investigated. Macrostructural analysis of the specimens showed that inter-pass forging led to a recrystallized structure. Alternation of layers with different grain shapes (columnar and equiaxed) is observed throughout the height of the specimens. Increasing the number of passes improves the mechanical properties of the material (tensile strength, yield strength, microhardness). A finite element model of inter-pass forging was developed to determine the effect of inter-pass surface deformation during WAAM on the residual stress–strain state. The non-stationary formulation was replaced with a quasi-static one. Johnson–Cook material constants were obtained for the deposited Inconel 718 material, including the effect of forging. Verification of the mathematical model was performed using a wall (specimen 2) deposited with single-stage forging. The deviation between the simulation results and the experiment did not exceed 15%. It was found that the sequence and number of passes significantly affect residual strain and displacements but have little effect on residual stress. Numerical modeling showed that the depth of plastic deformation exceeds the melting depth when depositing the subsequent layer, ensuring the preservation and accumulation of the inter-pass forging effect throughout the deposition process. Full article

Nickel superalloy Inconel 718 (IN718) is widely employed in harsh environments with prolonged cyclic stresses in the aerospace and energy sectors, due to its corrosion/oxidation resistance and mechanical strength obtained by precipitation hardening. This work investigates the mechanical behavior in fatigue of IN718 manufactured by Additive Manufacturing (AM), specifically by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB), and compares its results with the material produced by forging and rolling. Samples from both processes were subjected to heat treatments of solution and double aging to increase their mechanical strength. Then, tensile, microhardness, microstructural characterization, and uniaxial fatigue tests were performed (with loading ratio R = −1). The results showed that, although the IN718 produced by AM had higher microhardness and a higher tensile strength limit than the forged and rolled material, its fatigue performance was lower. The S–N curve (stress vs. number of cycles) for the material obtained by PBF-LB demonstrated shorter fatigue life, especially under low and medium stresses. The analysis of the fracture surfaces revealed differences in the regions where the crack initiated and propagated. The shorter fatigue life of the material obtained by PBF-LB was attributed to typical process defects and microstructural differences, such as the shape of the grains, which act as points of crack nucleation. Full article

Active screen plasma nitriding (ASPN) of additively manufactured nickel-based superalloys represents an understudied surface enhancement pathway. This study presents the first systematic investigation of ASPN applied to additively manufactured Inconel 939 (IN 939), evaluating four distinct post-processing routes combining heat treatment atmospheres (argon versus air cooling), vibratory finishing, and lapping under identical nitriding parameters (450 °C, 8 h, 25% N₂ + 75% H₂, 3 hPa). Contrasting nitriding behaviours emerged as a function of the post-processing route: the air-cooled thermal treatment (HT-air-vibr-lap) promotes formation of a thick Al/Cr-rich oxide layer (10–15 µm) that substantially inhibits nitrogen diffusion, resulting in thin and discontinuous nitrided layers. Conversely, the inert atmosphere route (HT-Ar-vibr-lap) circumvents oxide formation, enabling continuous S-phase (expanded austenite, γN) layer development of a 6.4 ± 0.3 µm thickness with exceptional surface hardness (~1200 HV, representing 3–4× enhancement relative to base material). X-ray diffraction confirmed S-phase formation with refined lattice parameter (3.609 Å) and secondary nitride phases (CrN-type and NbN/TaN-type precipitates). The post-processing sequence—particularly heat treatment atmosphere and mechanical finishing methodology—emerged as a critical controlling parameter for S-phase formation efficiency and mechanical properties of nitrided layers in additively manufactured nickel-based superalloys. This work addresses a knowledge gap distinct from the existing literature on conventional Inconel systems, establishing that controlled surface modification through post-processing can achieve the required properties. Full article

This work presents a microstructural characterization methodology for Diamalloy 3001 metallic powders sprayed onto Inconel 718 substrates by flame combustion. Hence, two flame stoichiometric (acetylene/oxygen) rates and specified thermal spray distances were performed in order to study their effects on the developed microstructure of the sprayed coatings. The morphology and chemical composition of the developed coatings were evaluated with microscopy, and a comparison of microstructural quality was performed. The findings indicated that spray distance affected coating quality, which is composed of morphology-type lamellar with elongated features, while gravel-like morphologies related to semi-solid powder particles were observed. Moreover, X-ray diffraction analyses established that chemical content of phases rich in oxides increased proportionally with spray distance. Vickers hardness measures and three-point bending tests were correlated with the microstructure and spray distance. These characteristics show that cobalt-based coatings could be proposed for commercial applications requiring high mechanical resistance. Full article

This study introduces a model-free reinforcement learning framework based on Q-Learning (QLA) for the multi-objective optimization of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) process parameters for Inconel 718. To efficiently handle the limited experimental dataset, a tabular Q-Learning approach was implemented, in which each parameter combination was treated as a discrete state and every possible transition as an action. Four key process variables laser power (P), scan speed (S), layer thickness (T), and hatch spacing (H) were optimized for two output responses: relative density (RD) and Vickers hardness (VH). The Q-Learning agent iteratively explored various parameter combinations, observed the resulting material properties, and continuously updated its policy to converge toward optimal conditions. The optimal parameter set identified by the framework was P = 270 W, S = 800 mm/s, H = 0.1 mm, and T = 0.08 mm. Despite relying on only 16 experimental trials, the model achieved exceptionally low prediction errors of 0.0503% for RD and 0.0857% for VH, demonstrating substantial reductions in both experimental effort and material consumption. The results confirm that reinforcement learning can autonomously and effectively identify optimal SLM parameter settings, highlighting its strong potential to enhance precision, efficiency, and overall quality in the additive manufacturing of metallic components. Full article

Multi-material Directed Energy Deposition (DED) Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes enable the integration of different material properties into a single structure, addressing the requirements of various applications and working environments. Laser-based Directed Energy Deposition (DED-LB) has been employed in the past for surface coatings as well as for the repair and repurposing of high-value industrial components, with the goal of extending product lifetime without relying on expensive and time-consuming manufacturing from scratch. While powder DED-LB has traditionally been used for multi-material AM, the more resource-efficient and cost-effective wire DED-LB process is now being explored as a solution for creating hybrid materials. This work focuses on the critical aspects of implementing multi-material DED-LB, specifically defining an optimal operating process window that ensures the best quality and performance of the final parts. By investigating the possibility of combining stainless steel and nickel-based alloys, this study seeks to unlock new possibilities for the repair and optimization of naval components, ultimately improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime for critical naval equipment. The analysis of the experimental results has revealed strong compatibility of stainless steel 316 with Inconel 718 and stainless steel 17-4PH, while the gray cast iron forms acceptable fusion only with stainless steel 17-4PH. Finally, during the experimental phase, substrate pre-heating and process monitoring with thermocouples will be employed to manage and assess heat distribution in the working area, ensuring defect-free material joining. Full article

Inconel 718 is widely used in chloride-bearing environments where localized corrosion resistance is critical. This study assesses the effect of continuous low-temperature plasma nitriding (425 °C, 2 h) on the microstructure, hardness, and localized corrosion behavior of Inconel 718. The nitriding treatment produced a surface layer with hardness values up to three times higher than those of the untreated material, associated with a nitrided layer of thickness 6.1–6.7 µm. X-ray diffraction confirmed the precipitation of CrN without the formation of nitrogen-expanded phases. Cyclic polarization tests revealed non-significant changes in the corrosion parameters, except for a two-fold increase in the corrosion rate of nitrided samples. Also, the critical pitting temperature (CPT) decreased by more than 30 °C on average in the nitrided condition, falling below 10 °C. These findings indicate that, although continuous plasma nitriding enhances surface hardening, it significantly compromises the alloy’s resistance to localized corrosion in chloride-rich environments. Full article

Variable amplitude fatigue loading can result in both accelerated and decelerated fatigue damage due to load interaction effects. Short fatigue cracks in particular exhibit a wide range of crack growth behavior due to multiple damage mechanisms contributing to interaction effects. To investigate this variation in fatigue damage behavior and the influence of causative damage mechanisms, variable amplitude fatigue tests were conducted on an Inconel 625 alloy. Periodic overload, high-low, and repeated block loading patterns were applied, and specimens were analyzed with a surface replication technique during testing to capture crack growth. Fracture surface imaging of failed specimens identified crack face morphology. High stress cycles in the overload and repeated block loadings resulted in increased fatigue life, and evidence of plastic crack closure was noted in periodic overload samples. Crack growth deceleration due to overload was identified in crack lengths as short as 65 µm. This increase in fatigue life differs from other research that demonstrated damage acceleration of short cracks during variable amplitude fatigue. This acceleration was attributed to crack closure and microstructural barriers, whereas the deceleration in this study is attributed to the interaction of plastic crack closure and crack extension caused by the application of an overload. Full article

Machining nickel-based superalloys, such as Inconel 718, poses a significant technological challenge due to their high-temperature strength and low thermal conductivity, leading to rapid tool wear. This paper presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of two roughing strategies: high-feed milling and plunge milling, utilizing a unique custom-designed milling head. The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of tool material reinforcement on the process by comparing SiC whisker-reinforced ceramic inserts (CW100) with non-reinforced inserts (CS300). The experiment involved measuring cutting force components, power consumption, and analyzing tool wear progression (VBB) and mechanisms. Results showed that the presence of the reinforcing phase is critical for reducing the axial force component (Fz), particularly in plunge milling, where CW100 inserts achieved a 30–35% force reduction and avoided the catastrophic failure observed in non-reinforced ceramics. Microscopic analysis confirmed that composite inserts undergo predictable abrasive wear, whereas CS300 inserts are prone to brittle fracture and spalling. Multi-criteria optimization using Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) identified high-feed milling with reinforced inserts as the most efficient strategy, while also positioning plunge milling with composites as a competitive, less energy-intensive alternative. Full article

This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of aluminizing on the oxidation of Inconel 718 and Inconel 738LC superalloys. Bare and high-activity chemical vapor deposition (CVD) aluminized Inconel 718 and Inconel 738LC samples were oxidized in air at 925, 1000, and 1050 °C for 200 h. Detailed cross-sectional examinations, elemental analyses, mass change measurements, and X-ray diffraction studies were performed. It was observed that the oxidation resistances of both alloys were significantly improved by the Al₂O₃ scale formed on the NiAl layer that was created on the surfaces of the samples during aluminizing. The beneficial effect of aluminizing was found to be more evident in the case of Inconel 738LC alloy samples which showed lower oxidation rates at all test temperatures. The results have been discussed on the basis of the differences in aluminum contents of the alloys and their effects on diffusion. Full article

Heterostructure (HS) refers to a class of structural materials composed of two or more different chemical components or crystal structures. Integration of Inconel 625 (IN625) nickel-based superalloy and Ti6Al4V (TC4) titanium alloy to a HS material offers a promising strategy to achieve graded thermo-mechanical properties, extended service temperature ranges, and significant weight reduction, which are highly desirable in aerospace applications. However, obtaining a better metallurgical bonding between the two alloys remains a critical challenge. In this study, laser directed energy deposition (L-DED) technology was employed to fabricate IN625/TC4 HS materials with a nonlinear gradient transition, following systematic investigations into the phase composition and crack sensitivity of IN625/TC4 gradient layers prepared from mixed powders of varying compositions. In addition, microstructure, phase distribution, and mechanical properties of HS materials at room temperature were characterized. The metallurgical defect-free IN625/TC4 HS material was successfully prepared, featuring a smooth transition of microstructure, reduced cracking sensitivity, and reliable metallurgical bonding. Furthermore, a novel design concept and illustrative reference for the L-DED fabrication of N625/TC4 HS material with excellent comprehensive performance was presented, while providing a theoretical metallurgical basis and data support for the potential applications of IN625/TC4 HS materials in the field of aerospace. Full article

This study investigates the influence of iron dilution on the microstructure and corrosion behavior of Inconel 625 weld overlays deposited on carbon steel. Different deposition strategies were employed to control dilution and to evaluate its effect on elemental segregation. The overlays were characterized in terms of microstructural evolution, chemical distribution, and corrosion performance under standardized testing conditions. The results show that increasing iron dilution enhances chemical segregation within the dendritic structure, which governs the initiation of localized corrosion. A critical dilution condition associated with the onset of pitting was identified. These findings advance the understanding of dilution-controlled corrosion mechanisms in nickel-based alloy overlays. Full article