superalloys metal powder

superalloys metal powder enable additive manufacturing of high strength, heat resistant alloy components unmatched by conventional metals. This guide covers superalloy compositions, powder specifications, properties data, pricing insights and comparisons to inform powder metallurgy procurement decisions.

Introduction to superalloys metal powder

Key capabilities of superalloy powders:

• Withstand extreme temperatures up to 85% of melting points
• Retain strength, corrosion resistance and stability in harsh environments
• Facilitate innovative complex part geometries through AM

Common classification groups:

• Nickel-based – Inconel, Waspaloy, Rene alloys
• Cobalt-based – Haynes, HS alloys
• Iron-based – A286, 901, 304 variants

This guide provides considerations when selecting superalloy powder:

• Alloy Compositions and Powder Production Methods
• Mechanical Properties, Test Methods and Data Sheets
• Particle Size Distribution Specifications
• Powder Morphology Characteristics and Consistency
• Pricing Models Based on Order Volumes
• Oxidation and Corrosion Resistance
• Pros vs Cons: Powder vs Solid Bar
• FAQs on Quality Control and Applications

Let us explore superalloy powders specifically…

superalloys metal powder Compositions

Table 1 shows nominal compositions of common nickel and cobalt-based superalloys with some variation between powder manufacturers.

Small additions of boron, carbon, zirconium and silicon also tailor grain structure, strengthen boundaries and enhance high temperature behavior through precipitate formation.

Mechanical Properties and Test Methods

Table 2 shows typical minimum mechanical properties met by common superalloy powders, with actual values varying based on build geometry, post-processing, and heat treatment.

Review test reports carefully to ensure powder lots procured meet certification requirements and application needs.

superalloys metal powder Particle Size Specs

Table 3 shows particle size distribution categories generally used to classify superalloy powders:

Other key particle characteristics:

• Spherical morphology
• Satellite free smooth surfaces
• Controlled size distribution
• Flow rates >30s in Hall funnel

For printing, 25-45 micron mean sizes give a good balance of resolution and flowability. Adjust based on specific machine capabilities and minimum feature sizes needed.

superalloys metal powder Pricing

Table 4 provides rough superalloy powder price estimates under typical market conditions:

• Special alloys command premium baseline pricing
• Large orders in 500-1000+ kg range enable >50% discounts from list price points through bulk buying leverage
• Actual market prices tied to raw material input price fluctuations

Oxidation and Corrosion Resistance

Superalloys maintain exceptional stability even when exposed to extreme environments:

Table 5

Carefully engineered compositions with nickel, chromium and aluminum form tenacious passivating oxide barriers protecting surfaces against attack up to very high proportions of melting points.

Elements like molybdenum further boost pitting and crevice corrosion resistance.

Pros vs Cons: Powder vs Solid Bar

Table 6

In general, superalloy powder justifies premiums for low volume complex components where advanced properties are vital. Standard mill forms offer affordability for simple shapes in high production use cases.

FAQs

Table 7 – Common questions:

Table 8 – Application-specific advice:

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