Processing and Microstructural Evolution of Superalloy Inconel 718 during Hot Tube Extrusion

The processing parameters of tube extrusion for superalloy Inconel 718 (IN 718), such as slug temperature, tools temperature, choice of lubricant, extrusion ratio and extrusion speed, were determined by experiment in this paper. An appropriate temperature range recommended for the slug is 1080~1120℃, and the temperature range recommended for the tools is 350~500℃. The microstructural evolution of superalloy IN 718 during tube extrusion was analyzed. With the increase of the deformation the cross crystal grains were slightly refined. While the vertical crystal grain is elongated evidently and the tensile strength increased along the axial rake. Glass lubricants have to be spread on the slug surface after being heated to 150~200℃, vegetable oil or animal oil can be used as the lubricant on the surface of the tools to reduce the extrusion force remarkably.