Robert Albrecht

Correlation between SEM and X-Ray Diffraction Imaging of Defect Structure in Single-Crystal Ni-Based Superalloy

In the work the single-crystalline alloy CMSX-4 was studied. The main aim of the study was an attempt to find correlations between images of X-Ray topography, X-ray diffraction maps of lattice parameter and misorientation angle and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images obtained by back-scattered electron (BSE) technique. Topography images were obtained by Auleytner method with wide beam. Diffractometer provided by EFG company was used for obtaining orientation and lattice parameter maps. Material for research was produced in Research and Development Laboratory for Aerospace Materials of Rzeszów University of Technology. Casts were obtained in ALD furnace by the Bridgman technique. It was found that X-ray topograms were correlated with SEM images of microstructures as well as with orientation and lattice parameter maps. X-Ray topograms showed high contrast bands which corresponded to dendrite arms. There was a correlation between low angle boundary and lattice parameter map.

Characterization of Single-Crystal Turbine Blades by X-Ray Diffraction Methods

Characterization of structure defects in turbine blades is the basis for determination of the overall crystalline perfections. This work presents the possibilities of identifying casting defects by combining different X-ray diffraction techniques. The investigation was conducted on samples prepared from as-cast turbine blades airfoil and tips. It was found that X-ray topograms revealed dendritic structure and macro strain areas. The defects areas which have appeared on topograms were also investigated by X-ray diffraction mapping technique by EFG diffractometer. Additionally, the X-ray investigation was complemented by macro SEM images obtained by stitching several images of microstructure. The X-ray maps of misorientation angle and X-ray topograms revealed deviation between the γ’ direction and the blade axis and rotation of the primary dendrite arm around this axis.

Determination of Crystal Orientation by Ω-Scan Method in Nickel-Based Single-Crystal Turbine Blades

The article presents an assessment of the crystal perfection of single-crystal turbine blades based on the crystal orientation and lattice parameter distribution on their surface. Crystal orientation analysis was conducted by the X-ray diffraction method Ω-scan and the X-ray diffractometer provided by the EFG Company. The Ω-scan method was successfully used for evaluation of the crystal orientation and lattice parameters in semiconductors. A description of the Ω-scan method and an example of measurement of crystal orientation compared to the Laue and EBSD methods are presented.

The Effect of Superalloy Structure on Ultrasonic Wave Parameters

Abstract This paper analyses the nickel based superalloy Inconel 713C casts typically used in high and low pressure turbines of aircraft engines. The ingots were manufactured in the Research and Development Laboratory for Aerospace Materials at the Rzeszów University of Technology. The superalloy structures were analysed by the following methods: X-ray diffraction orientation measurement and ultrasonic wave propagation. Ultrasonic techniques are mainly used to measure the blade wall’s thickness. Measurement accuracy is determined by the velocity of the ultrasonic wave in the material tested. This work evaluates the effect of the nickel-based superalloy microstructure on the velocity of the ultrasonic wave propagation. Three different macrostructures: equiax (EQ), directionally solidified (DS) and single crystal (SX) were analysed. The authors determined the crystal misorientation in the obtained casts as the deviation of [001] crystallographic direction from the withdrawal axis or the main axis of the ingots. The measurements performed allowed researchers to identify significant differences in the wave velocity between EQ, DS and SX structures.

Characterization of As-Cast Single-Crystal CMSX-4 Superalloy Turbine Blades

Nickel-based single-crystal superalloys are widely used for production of high pressure turbine blades. The studied blades were obtained in an ALD Vacuum Technologies furnace by the Bridgman technique. Crystallization process was carried out with drawing rates of 3 mm/min and 5 mm/min. The dendrite microstructure based on the γ/γ’ phases and their defects was characterized using X-Ray topography, Laue diffraction, transmission electron microscopy. The defect structure samples were examined with the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. It was found that crystal orientation, lattice parameter of γ’ phase and concentration of defects are correlated. The defect concentration increases in some areas which was the result of deviation of the primary dendrite arm from crystallization direction . Only one type of point defects was detected.

Characterization of Composite Based on Al–Cu–Co Alloy

Composite based on Al–Cu–Co alloy obtained by directional solidification, were characterized. The quasicrystalline decagonal D phase of Al64Cu20Co16 was the reinforcement and the singlecrystalline tetragonal T phase of Al72Cu27Co1 was the matrix of the composite. The phases were identified by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). The composite was analysed by light optical microscope and electron microscopes. The SEM and TEM techniques were used. Additionally the Laue method was used. The results of the study showed that the reinforcement has a form of parallel fibres of 20-40 μm diameter. Quasicrystal structure of fibres contained the phason strain. The quasicrystalline phase in the form of decagonal columns was also present inside composite pores.