A MODIFIED THETA PROJECTION CREEP MODEL FOR A NICKEL-BASED SUPER-ALLOY

摘要

Accurate prediction of creep deformation is critical to assuring the mechanical integrity of heavy-duty, industrial gas turbine (IGT) hardware. The classical description of the creep deformation curve consists of a brief primary, followed by a longer secondary, and then a brief tertiary creep phase. An examination of creep tests at four temperatures for a proprietary, nickel-based, equiaxed, super-alloy revealed many occasions where there is no clear transition from secondary to tertiary creep. This paper presents a new creep model for a Nickel-based super-alloy, with some similarities to the Theta Projection (TP) creep model by Evans and all. The alternative creep equation presented here was developed using meaningful parameters, or 9's, such as: the primary creep strain, time at primary creep strain, minimum (or secondary) creep rate, and time that tertiary creep begins. By plotting the first and second derivative of creep, the authors were able to develop a creep equation that accurately matches tests. This creep equation is identical to the primary creep portion of the theta projection model, but has a modified second term. An additional term is included to simulate tertiary creep. An overall scaling factor is used to satisfy physical constraints and ensure solution stability. The new model allows a constant creep rate phase to be maintained, captures tertiary creep, and satisfies physical constraints. The coefficients of the creep equations were developed using results from 27 creep tests performed at 4 temperatures. An automated routine was developed to directly fit the θ coefficients for each phase, resulting in a close overall fit for the material. The resultant constitutive creep model can be applied to components which are subjected to a wide range of temperatures and stresses. Useful information is provided to designers in the form of time to secondary and tertiary creep for a given stress and temperature. More accurate creep predictions allow PSM to improve the structural integrity of its turbine blades and vanes.