Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “High temperature strength”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 199 records · Page 11

High Strength Aluminum Alloy For High Temperature Applications

A cast article from an aluminum alloy has improved mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. The cast article has the following composition in weight percent: Silicon 6.0-25.0, Copper 5.0-8.0, Iron 0.05-1.2, Magnesium 0.5-1.5, Nickel 0.05-0.9, Manganese 0.05-1.2, Titanium 0.05-1.2, Zirconium 0.05-1.2, Vanadium 0.05-1.2, Zinc 0.05-0.9, Strontium 0.001-0.1, Phosphorus 0.001-0.1, and the balance is Aluminum, wherein the silicon-to-magnesium ratio is 10-25, and the copper-to-magnesium ratio is 4-15. The aluminum alloy contains a simultaneous dispersion of three types of Al3X compound particles (X=Ti, V, Zr) having a LI2 crystal structure, and their lattice parameters are coherent to the aluminum matrix lattice. A process for producing this cast article is also disclosed, as well as a metal matrix composite, which includes the aluminum alloy serving as a matrix containing up to about 60% by volume of a secondary filler material.

Jonathan A Lee↗

NASA Hypersonic Technology Project (HTP) Sic/Sic Research for Hypersonic Airframe Hot Structures

NASA, DoD, and industry have a vision for reusable hypersonic vehicles (Mach > 5). The realization of this vision will require high-specific-strength, high-temperature, reusable structures. In the sub-sonic and super-sonic flight regimes, high-specific-strength structures can be obtained via the use of aluminum, titanium, and composite materials. In the high-temperature environments associated with hypersonic flight, high specific strength is obtained via refractory-composite materials. NASA Langley Research Center has multiple efforts focused on evaluating refractory-composites for use as airframe hot structures for reusable hypersonic vehicles. Current efforts span the entire building-block approach, including coupon, element, subcomponent, and component manufacturing and testing. The coupon level work includes progressive damage testing and analysis, restrained thermal growth testing, stressed oxidation testing, and evaluation of laminate properties for several layup architectures. Element testing includes evaluation of over-temperature capability and co-processed bonding, fastener development, and analysis and testing of beaded (corrugated) panels. Subcomponent level work includes a solid rocket motor booster fin and a portion of a control surface, and component level work includes a control surface static test article. The current presentation will provide an update of work being performed at NASA, which is expected to transition refractory-composite materials to reusable hypersonic vehicles.

Hot structures↗

Development of Fe-Mn-Al-X-C alloys

Development of a low cost Cr-free, iron-base alloy for aerospace applications involves both element substitution and enhancement of microstructural strengthening. When Mn is substituted for Ni and Al or Si is substituted for Cr, large changes occur in the mechanical and thermal stability of austenite in FeMnAlC alloys. The in situ strength of MC or M2C (M = Ti, V, Hf, Ta, or Mo) in FeMnAlC alloys was determined. The high temperature tensile strength depends more on the distribution of carbides than the carbide composition. Precipitation of a high volume percent-ordered phase was achieved in Fe2OMnlONi6Al6Ti (lC) alloys. As case, these alloys have a homogeneous austenitic structure. After solutioning at 1100 C for 5 hr followed by aging at 600 C for 16 hr, gamma prime or a perovskite carbide is precipitated. Overaging occurs at 900 C where eta is precipitated.

Schuon, S. R.↗

Probabilistic material strength degradation model for Inconel 718 components subjected to high temperature, high-cycle and low-cycle mechanical fatigue, creep and thermal fatigue effects

This report presents the results of both the fifth and sixth year effort of a research program conducted for NASA-LeRC by The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The research included on-going development of methodology for a probabilistic material strength degradation model. The probabilistic model, in the form of a postulated randomized multifactor equation, provides for quantification of uncertainty in the lifetime material strength of aerospace propulsion system components subjected to a number of diverse random effects. This model is embodied in the computer program entitled PROMISS, which can include up to eighteen different effects. Presently, the model includes five effects that typically reduce lifetime strength: high temperature, high-cycle mechanical fatigue, low-cycle mechanical fatigue, creep and thermal fatigue. Statistical analysis was conducted on experimental Inconel 718 data obtained from the open literature. This analysis provided regression parameters for use as the model's empirical material constants, thus calibrating the model specifically for Inconel 718. Model calibration was carried out for five variables, namely, high temperature, high-cycle and low-cycle mechanical fatigue, creep and thermal fatigue. Methodology to estimate standard deviations of these material constants for input into the probabilistic material strength model was developed. Using an updated version of PROMISS, entitled PROMISS93, a sensitivity study for the combined effects of high-cycle mechanical fatigue, creep and thermal fatigue was performed. Then using the current version of PROMISS, entitled PROMISS94, a second sensitivity study including the effect of low-cycle mechanical fatigue, as well as, the three previous effects was performed. Results, in the form of cumulative distribution functions, illustrated the sensitivity of lifetime strength to any current value of an effect. In addition, verification studies comparing a combination of high-cycle mechanical fatigue and high temperature effects by model to the combination by experiment were conducted. Thus, for Inconel 718, the basic model assumption of independence between effects was evaluated. Results from this limited verification study strongly supported this assumption.

Bast, Callie C.↗

Development and Characterization of SiC)/ MoSi2-Si3N4(p) Hybrid Composites

Intermetallic compound MoSi2 has long been known as a high temperature material that has excellent oxidation resistance and electrical/thermal conductivity. Also its low cost, high melting point (2023 C), relatively low density (6.2 g/cu cm versus 9 g/cu cm for current engine materials), and ease of machining, make it an attractive structural material. However, the use of MoSi2 has been hindered due to its poor toughness at low temperatures, poor creep resistance at high temperatures, and accelerated oxidation (also known as 'pest' oxidation) at temperatures between approximately 450 and 550 C. Continuous fiber reinforcing is very effective means of improving both toughness and strength. Unfortunately, MoSi2 has a relatively high coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) compared to potential reinforcing fibers such as SiC. The large CTE mismatch between the fiber and the matrix resulted in severe matrix cracking during thermal cycling. Addition of about 30 to 50 vol % of Si3N4 particulate to MoSi2 improved resistance to low temperature accelerated oxidation by forming a Si2ON2 protective scale and thereby eliminating catastrophic 'pest failure'. The Si3N4 addition also improved the high temperature creep strength by nearly five orders of magnitude, doubled the room temperature toughness and significantly lowered the CTE of the MoSi2 and eliminated matrix cracking in SCS-6 reinforced composites even after thermal cycling. The SCS-6 fiber reinforcement improved the room temperature fracture toughness by seven times and impact resistance by five times. The composite exhibited excellent strength and toughness improvement up to 1400 C. More recently, tape casting was adopted as the preferred processing of MoSi2-base composites for improved fiber spacing, ability to use small diameter fibers, and for lower cost. Good strength and toughness values were also obtained with fine diameter Hi-Nicalon tow fibers. This hybrid composite remains competitive with ceramic matrix composites as a replacement for Ni-base superalloys in aircraft engine applications.

Hebsur, Mohan G.↗

High temperature deformation of NiAl and CoAl

The high temperature mechanical properties of the aluminides are reviewed with respect to their potential as high temperature structural materials. It is shown that NiAl and CoAl are substantially stronger than the pure metals Ni and Co at high temperatures and approach the strength of some superalloys, particularly when those superalloys are tested in "weak" directions. The factors that limit and control the high temperature strengths of NiAl and CoAl are examined to provide a basis for the development of intermetallic alloys of this type.

Nix, W. D.↗

Tensile and creep rupture behavior of P/M processed Nb-base alloy, WC-3009

Due to its high strength at temperatures up to 1600 K, fabrication of niobium base alloy WC-3009 (Nb30Hf9W) by traditional methods is difficult. Powder metallurgy (P/M) processing offers an attractive fabrication alternative for this high strength alloy. Spherical powders of WC-3009 produced by electron beam atomizing (EBA) process were successfully consolidated into a one inch diameter rod by vacuum hot pressing and swaging techniques. Tensile strength of the fully dense P/M material at 300-1590 K were similar to the arc-melted material. Creep rupture tests in vacuum indicated that WC-3009 exhibits a class 1 solid solution (glide controlled) creep behavior in the 1480 to 1590 K temperature range and stress range of 14 to 70 MPa. The creep behavior was correlated with temperature and stress using a power law relationship. The calculated stress exponent n, was about 3.2 and the apparent activation energy, Q, was about 270 kJ/mol. The large creep ductility exhibited by WC-3009 was attributed to its high strain rate sensitivity.

Hebsur, Mohan G.↗

Quick-Change Ceramic Flame Holder for High-Output Torches

Researchers at NASA's Langley Research Center have developed a new ceramic design flame holder with a service temperature of 4,000 F (2,204 C). The combination of high strength and high temperature capability, as well as a twist-lock mounting method to the steel burner, sets this flame holder apart from existing technology.

Haskin, Henry↗

Titanium Dioxide Volatility in High Temperature Water Vapor

Titanium (Ti) containing materials are of high interest to the aerospace industry due to its high temperature capability, strength, and light weight. As with most metals an exterior oxide layer naturally exists in environments that contain oxygen (i.e. air). At high temperatures, water vapor plays a key role in the volatility of materials including oxide surfaces. This study will evaluate cold pressed titanium dioxide (TiO2) powder pellets at a temperature range of 1400 C - 1200 C in water containing environments to determine the volatile hydroxyl species using the transpiration method. The water content ranged from 0-76 mole% and the oxygen content range was 0-100 mole % during the 20-250 hour exposure times. Preliminary results indicate that oxygen is not a key contributor at these temperatures and the following reaction is the primary volatile equation for all three temperatures: TiO2 (s) + H2O (g) = TiO(OH)2 (g).

Nguyen, QynhGiao N.↗

Oxide dispersion hardened mechanically alloyed materials for high temperatures

The procedure of mechanical alloying makes it possible to obtain, with the aid of powder-metallurgy techniques, alloys that consist of a metallic matrix in which very fine oxide particles are dispersed. Mechanically alloyed compound powders can be used for making either forged or hot-rolled semifinished products. For these products, dispersion strengthening and precipitation hardening has been combined. At high temperatures, the strength characteristics of the alloy are determined by both dispersion hardening and by precipitation hardening processes. The effect produced by each process is independent of that due to the other. Attention is given to the principle of mechanical alloying developed by Benjamin (1970, 1976), the strength characteristics of mechanically alloyed materials, the corrosion resistance of mechanically alloyed material at high temperatures, and the preparation and characteristics of the alloy MA 6000 E.

Benjamin, J. S.↗

High Strength and Wear Resistant Aluminum Alloy for High Temperature Applications

In this paper, a new high strength and wear resistant aluminum cast alloy invented by NASA-MSFC for high temperature applications will be presented. Developed to meet U.S. automotive legislation requiring low-exhaust emission, the novel NASA 398 aluminum-silicon alloy offers dramatic improvement in tensile and fatigue strengths at elevated temperatures (500 F-800 F), enabling new pistons to utilize less material, which can lead to reducing part weight and cost as well as improving performance. NASA 398 alloy also offers greater wear resistance, surface hardness, dimensional stability, and lower thermal expansion compared to conventional aluminum alloys for several commercial and automotive applications. The new alloy can be produced economically using permanent steel molds from conventional gravity casting or sand casting. The technology was developed to stimulate the development of commercial aluminum casting products from NASA-developed technology by offering companies the opportunity to license this technology.

Lee, Jonathan A.↗

In-situ Mechanical Neutron Diffraction Loading Characteristics of GRCop-84 Fabricated by SLM

GRCop-84 is a precipitation strengthened alloy composed of Cu-8Cr-4Nb at % with Cr2Nb precipitates that provide dispersion and precipitation strengthening characteristics and limited solubility in the Cu matrix. The particle role of Cr2Nb(C15Laves) is unusual only contributing 1/3 of strengthening at high temperatures while the matrix provides the remainder. The particles mechanically and thermally stabilize the matrix retaining purity and preventing coarsening and loss of strength. At high temperatures (50-85%TmCu), GRCop-84 provides the best thermal and mechanical properties of available alloys. GRCop-84 is currently in development for reusable launch vehicles including the Space Launch System (SLS) with a focus on fabrication with additive manufacturing (AM) techniques. GRCop-84 is an optimal material for consolidating with AM. The base material is costly, the production times are long, and more geometry control can considerably improve cooling efficiency. Development of AMGR Cop-84 with selective laser melting (SLM) has rapidly progressed due to ease of printing and limited operator adjustment between builds, but the necessary knowledge-base of thermal history and stress state during builds is still under development.

Minneci, R.↗

Materials and structures technology

Materials and structures performance limitations, particularly for the hot section of the engine in which these limitations limit the life of components, are considered. Failure modes for components such as blades, vanes, and combustors and how they are affected by the environment for such components are discussed. Methods used to improve the materials used for such components are: (1) application of directional structures to turbine components for high strength at high temperatures; (2) improved coatings to increase oxidation and corrosion resistance; (3) increase strength and stiffness with reduced weight by applying higher specific properties of composite materials; and (4) cost effective processing such as near net shape powder methods applied to disks. Life prediction techniques developed to predict component life accurately in advance of service and progress in improving the intermediate and cold section components of turbine engines are covered.

Signorelli, R. A.↗

Effect of solutes in binary columbium /Nb/ alloys on creep strength

The effect of seven different solutes in binary columbium (Nb) alloys on creep strength was determined from 1400 to 3400 F for solute concentrations to 20 at.%, using a new method of creep-strength measurement. The technique permits rapid determination of approximate creep strength over a large temperature span. All of the elements were found to increase the creep strength of columbium except tantalum. This element did not strengthen columbium until the concentration exceeded 10 at.%. Hafnium, zirconium, and vanadium strengthed columbium most at low temperatures and concentrations, whereas tungsten, molybdenum, and rhenium contributed more to creep strength at high temperatures and concentrations.

Klein, M. J.↗

Environmental exposure effects on composite materials for commercial aircraft

A study was conducted to determine the effects of long term flight and ground exposure on three commercially available graphite-epoxy material systems: T300/5208, T300/5209, and T300/934. Sets of specimens were exposed on commercial aircraft and ground racks for 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 years. Inflight specimen sites included both the interior and exterior of aircraft based in Hawaii, Texas, and New Zealand. Ground racks were located at NASA-Dryden and the above mentioned states. Similar specimens were exposed to controlled lab conditions for up to 2 years. After each exposure, specimens were tested for residual strength and a dryout procedure was used to measure moisture content. Both room and high temperature residual strengths were measured and expressed as a pct. of the unexposed strength. Lab exposures included the effects of time alone, moisture, time on moist specimens, weatherometer, and simulated ground-air-ground cycling. Residual strengths of the long term specimens were compared with residual strengths of the lab specimens. Strength retention depended on the exposure condition and the material system. Results showed that composite materials can be successfully used on commercial aircraft if environmental effects are considered.

Hoffman, Daniel J.↗

Mechanisms of Interfacial Mixing in the Blown Powder Deposition of Inconel 625 to Copper Alloy for Liquid Rocket Engine Applications

There is an increasing need for functional materials to support high heat flux applications and optimize weight by using bimetallic additive manufacturing (AM). While one promising fabrication technology is the use of blown powder directed energy deposition (DED) AM, challenges remain with bi-metallic combinations. Prominent among these challenges is the need to understand mixing of materials at the bimetallic interface for forming stronger, more durable and reliable joints to extend the versatility of AM into critical applications. One application is the manufacturing of combustion chambers with copper-alloy liners and Superalloy structural jackets. In this application, material combinations are selected for effective heat dissipation, using copper, and retention of strength at high temperatures using Inconel 625. Currently, the dominant problem with this configuration is the highly variable strength of the interface and its correlation with deposition parameters. In this study, samples were fabricated at several vendors with Inconel 625 deposited onto wrought C-18150 (Cu-Cr-Zr) to form a bimetallic interface. Characterization of the interfaces were achieved through optical and electron microscopy, mechanical testing of mini tensile specimens, and electron dispersion spectroscopy to understand diffusion and bulk mixing behaviors at the joint. A theoretical framework was constructed in the context of solidification and mixing mechanisms to explain the resulting differences in the interface. This qualitative approach utilized a fluid dynamics perspective to sum the order of magnitudes of the various acting forces on the weld pool during deposition to predict convection trends based off known parameters. The predicted trends for each vendor are compared to obtain a better understanding of how mixing in the molten pool varied based on deposition parameters.

Additive Manufacturing↗

Manufacture of sintered silicon nitrides

Sintered silicon nitrides are manufactured by sintering Si3N powder containing 2 to 15% in wt of a powder mixture composed of nitride powder of lanthanide or Y 100 parts and AIN powder less than 100 parts at 1500 to 1900 deg. temperature under a pressure of less than 200 Kg/sq. cm. The sintered Si3N has high mechanical strength in high temperature. Thus, Si3N4 93.0, Y 5.0 and AlN 2.0% in weight were wet mixed in acetone in N atom, molded and sintered at 1750 deg. and 1000 Kg/sq. cm. to give a sintered body having high hardness.

Iwai, T.↗