Homogenization Processes in Single-Crystal and Granular ZhS32-VI High-Temperature Alloys

Abstract

The microstructure, the segregation of alloying elements, and the diffusion processes in the ZhS32-VI nickel superalloys fabricated by single-crystal casting and argon gas atomization followed by vacuum heat treatment are studied by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive electron-probe microanalysis. It is found that vacuum heat treatment at 1280°C of ZhS32-VI alloy granules without the application of external pressure can be used to fabricate a homogeneous alloy with a polycrystalline structure and a grain size of 10–30 μm. The microporosity in this alloy is no higher than that in cast nickel superalloys.