Application of damping mechanism model and stacking fault probability in Fe–Mn alloy

In this paper, the damping mechanism model of Fe–Mn alloy was analyzed using dislocation theory. Moreover, as an important parameter in Fe–Mn based alloy, the effect of stacking fault probability on the damping capacity of Fe–19.35Mn alloy after deep-cooling or tensile deformation was also studied. The damping capacity was measured using reversal torsion pendulum. The stacking fault probability of γ-austenite and ε-martensite was determined by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) profile analysis. The microstructure was observed using scanning electronic microscope (SEM). The results indicated that with the strain amplitude increasing above a critical value, the damping capacity of Fe–19.35Mn alloy increased rapidly which could be explained using the breakaway model of Shockley partial dislocations. Deep-cooling and suitable tensile deformation could improve the damping capacity owning to the increasing of stacking fault probability of Fe–19.35Mn alloy.     

The relationship of the volume fraction of martensite vs. plastic strain in an Fe–Mn–Si–Cr–N shape memory alloy

The volume fractions of stress-induced martensite formed by certain plastic strains were determined by X-ray diffraction and quantitative metallography in an Fe–Mn–Si–Cr–N alloy at room temperature. The results are fitted by least square method and are well consistent with an exponential function f_M=1−exp{−β[1−exp(−η)]ⁿ} deduced by Olson and Cohen, who used it to fit with experimental data for AISI304 stainless steel. The similarity of and β, as well as the difference in n for these two alloys are discussed in relation to their nucleation mechanisms.     

Martensitic transformation and shape memory effect in Fe–Mn–Si based alloys

The research status of the Fe–Mn–Si based alloys is reviewed with emphasis on the recent progress in the martensitic transformation and the associated shape memory effect (SME). Particular interest is given to the fcc(γ)–hcp(ε) transformation mechanism in the alloys featured by low stacking fault energy and the approaches aiming to the enhancement of SME through alloy design including microalloying and microstructure control by introducing texture and precipitates into the parent γ matrix. Potential topics of oncoming focus are briefly highlighted.     

Structure and magnetic properties of nanocrystalline mechanically alloyed Fe–10% Ni and Fe–20% Ni

The mechanical alloying technique has been used to prepare nanocrystalline Fe–10 and Fe–20 wt.% Ni alloys from powder mixtures. The structure and magnetic properties were studied by using X-ray diffraction and hysteresis measurements, respectively. For both alloys studied, a disordered body centered cubic solid solution forms after 24 h milling time. The higher the milling time, the larger the lattice parameter. The steady-state grain size is ≈10 nm. The reduction of the grain size increases the saturation magnetization and decreases the coercivity. Nanocrystalline Fe–10 and Fe–20 wt.% Ni have been shown to exhibit a soft magnetic behavior.     

Magneto-elastic interchange in ferromagnetic alloys

The internal friction δ, exchange integral A, magnetocrystalline anisotropic constant K_I and saturation magnetization M_s of Fe–Cr–Al and Fe–Cr–Al–Si alloys annealed at 1373 and 1473 K are measured. The energy density and volume fraction of domain walls (DWs) of these alloys are calculated based on the theories of ferromagnetism and the magnetic parameters measured. The physical process of irreversible movement of 90° DWs is suggested. The results indicate the dissipated elastic energy per unit volume due to the irreversible movements of 90° DWs is equal in value to the energy density of DWs, that is γ_w/δ_w=λ_sE/2. It is an effect of magneto-elastic interchange in ferromagnetic alloys.     

Analysis of the microstructure of Cr–Ni surface layers deposited on Fe3Al by TIG

A series of Cr–Ni alloys were overlaid on a Fe₃Al surface by tungsten inert gas arc welding (TIG) technology. The microstructure of the Cr–Ni surface layers were analysed by means of optical metallography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicated that when the appropriate TIG parameters were used and Cr25–Ni13 and Cr25–Ni20 alloys were used for the overlaid materials, the Cr–Ni surface layers were crack-free. The matrix of the surface layer was austenite (A), pro-eutectoid ferrite (PF), acicular ferrite (AF), carbide-free bainite (CFB) and lath martensite (LM), distributed on the austenitic grain boundaries as well as inside the grains. The phase constituents of the Cr25–Ni13 surface layer were γ-Fe, Fe₃Al, FeAl, NiAl, an Fe–C compound and an Fe–C–Cr compound. The microhardness of the fusion zone was lower than that of the Fe₃Al base metal and Cr25–Ni13 surface layer.     

Formation of amorphous and nanocrystalline phases in high velocity oxy-fuel thermally sprayed a Fe–Cr–Si–B–Mn alloy

High velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) thermal spray was used to deposit a Fe–Cr–Si–B alloy coating onto stainless steel (1Cr18Ni9Ti) substrate. Microstructures of the powder and the coating were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning election microscopy (SEM), transmission election microscopy (TEM) and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The coating had layered morphologies due to the deposition and solidification of successive molten or half-molten splats. The microstructures of the coating consisted of a Fe–Cr-rich matrix and several kinds of borides. The Fe–Cr-rich matrix contained both amorphous phase and nanocrystalline grains with a size of 10–50 nm. The crystallization temperature of the amorphous phase was about 605 °C. The formation of the amorphous phase was attributed to the high cooling rates of molten droplets and the proper powder compositions by effective addition of Cr, Mn, Si and B. The nanocrystalline grains could result from crystallization in amorphous region or interface of the amorphous phase and borides by homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation.     

Study of transformation behavior in a Ti–4.4 Ta–1.9 Nb alloy

An alloy of composition Ti–4.4 wt.% Ta–1.9 wt.% Nb is being developed as a structural material for corrosion applications, as titanium and its alloys possess excellent corrosion resistance in many oxidizing media. The primary physical metallurgy database for the Ti–4.4 wt.% Ta–1.9 wt.% Nb alloy is being presented for the first time. Determination of the β transus, M_s temperature and classification of the alloy have been carried out, employing a variety of microscopy techniques, X-ray diffraction (XRD), micro-hardness and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The β transition temperature or β transus determined using different experimental techniques was found to agree very well with evaluations based on empirical calculations. Based on chemistry and observed room temperature microstructure, the alloy has been classified as an + β titanium alloy. The high temperature β transforms to either ′ or + β by a martensitic or Widmanstatten transformation. The mechanisms of transformation of β under different conditions and characteristics of different types of have been studied and discussed in this paper.     

Crystal chemistry and Calphad modeling of the σ phase

A systematic review of the crystal chemical properties of the σ phase is presented, with special emphasis on the atomic order, i.e. the distribution of the atoms on the different sites of the crystal structure. The data available in the literature have been systematically assessed, and are complemented by an experimental investigation in the following systems: Al–Nb, Al–Ta, Cr–Mn, Cr–Os, Cr–Re, Cr–Ru, Co–Mo, Fe–Mo, Fe–Re, Mn–Mo, Mn–Re, Mn–V, Mo–Re, Nb–Pt, Nb–Re, Ni–V, Pd–Ta, Re–V, Rh–Ta and Ru–W. The properties are analyzed as a function of composition and the nature and atomic size of the elements involved. The possibility of an order–disorder transition has also been reviewed and completed by diffraction experiments in two systems (Cr–Mn and Ni–V). First-principles calculations on the σ phase are reviewed in line with the Calphad approach. An analysis of the literature data concerning the Calphad modeling of systems involving the σ phase has been made. The different models used are presented and discussed. The conclusions of crystal structure data analysis are used to make some recommendations about the choice of a model in the frame of a Calphad assessment.     

Effects of heat treatments on the microstructures and mechanical properties of Mg–3Nd–0.2Zn–0.4Zr (wt.%) alloy

Microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast and different heat treated Mg–3Nd–0.2Zn–0.4Zr (wt.%) (NZ30K) alloys were investigated. The as-cast alloy was comprised of magnesium matrix and Mg₁₂Nd eutectic compounds. After solution treatment at 540 °C for 6 h, the eutectic compounds dissolved into the matrix and small Zr-containing particles precipitated at grain interiors. Further aging at low temperatures led to plate-shaped metastable precipitates, which strengthened the alloy. Peak-aged at 200 °C for 10–16 h, fine β″ particles with DO₁₉ structure was the dominant strengthening phase. The alloy had ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation of 300–305 MPa and 11%, respectively. Aged at 250 °C for 10 h, coarse β′ particles with fcc structure was the dominant strengthening phase. The alloy showed UTS and elongation of 265 MPa and 20%, respectively. Yield strengths (YS) of these two aged conditions were in the same level, about 140 MPa. Precipitation strengthening was the largest contributor (about 60%) to the strength in these two aged conditions. The hardness of aged NZ30K alloy seemed to correspond to UTS not YS.     

Formation of metal–TiN/TiC nanocomposite powders by mechanical alloying and their consolidation

Fe–TiN, Ni–TiN, and SUS316–TiC nanocomposite powders were prepared by ball-milling Fe–Ti, Ni–Ti, and SUS316–TiC powder mixtures in a nitrogen or argon gas atmosphere. Fe–63vol.% TiN and Ni–44–64vol.% TiN milled powders were dynamically compacted by use of a propellant gun to produce bulk materials of nanocrystalline structure and having grain sizes between about 5 and 400 nm. SUS316–2.8–5.6vol.% TiC milled powders were consolidated by hot isostatic pressing (HIP) to produce bulk materials having grain sizes between about 100 and 400 nm. The possibility of using fine-dispersed TiN/TiC particles to pin grain boundaries and thereby maintain ultra-fine grained structures of grain sizes down to the nanocrystalline scale has been discussed.     

Structure of freshly formed and low-temperature aged Fe–N austenites

A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study has been carried out to investigate the structural state of freshly formed and aged Fe–8.6 at.% N austenites. The experimental alloys were prepared by gas nitriding of iron foils under NH₃/H₂ mixture, followed by direct quenching into iced-brine. The observation has shown that the freshly formed Fe–8.6 at.% N alloy is essentially composed of a single austenite which does not contain the long-range atomic order of the interstitial nitrogen atoms. The results rather indicated that the as-nitrided Fe–N austenite would contain local atomic order to form isolated Fe₄N-type and/or N–Fe–N dumbbell-type atomic configuration in a short-range, as suggested by previous Mössbauer spectroscopy studies. Aging at low temperatures, i.e. 373 and 473 K, allowed further segregation of nitrogen atoms to result in the formation of the fine structure, resembling the {100} modulated structure by the spinodal decomposition. The resulting microstructure consisted of the N-enriched regions and the N-depleted regions, where the former further contained Fe₄N-type long-range atomic order.     

The influence of impurity level and tin addition on the ageing heat treatment of the 356 class alloy

The influence of the addition of 0.5 wt.% Sn to Al–7Si–0.3 Mg alloys (356 and A356) on their ageing behaviour and mechanical properties was evaluated. Adding Sn led to a reduction of the iron rich intermetallics volume fraction, and of hardness. During solution heat treatment, Mg went into the solid solution, and Sn particles grew by competitive growth, concentrating at phase boundaries and interfaces. During aging β″ and Si precipitated. In the alloys with Sn, the β″ precipitation was accelerated and its hardening effect was greater, whereas the Si precipitation did not changed significantly. The mechanical properties of the A356 alloy were compatible with the hardening achieved during the heat treatment and to the amount of defects (pores) present in the microstructure. The yield strength and elongation of the A356 + 0.5% Sn alloy decreased after solution heat treatment and with increasing ageing temperature. These detrimental effects were minimized by treating this alloy in the T5 condition at 150 °C.     

Internal friction behaviour of Ni–Mn–Ga

The internal friction (IF) behaviour of shape memory alloys (SMA) is characterised by an IF peak and a minimum of the elastic modulus during the martensitic transformation (MT), and a higher IF value in the martensitic state than in parent phase. The IF peak is considered to be built of three contributions, the most important of them being the so-called “transient” one, existing only at non-zero temperature rate. On the other hand, the ferromagnetic Ni–Mn–Ga system alloys undergoes a MT from the L2₁ ordered parent phase to martensite, the characteristics of the transformation depending largely on the e/a ratio of the alloys. Indeed, a variety of transformation sequences, including intermediate phases between parent and martensite and intermartensitic transformations, have been observed for a wide set of studied alloys. Furthermore, the IF and modulus behaviour during cooling and heating these alloys show specific characteristics, such as modulus anomalies, strong temperature dependence of the elastic modulus, temperature dependent internal friction in martensite, and, as a general trend, a low transient contribution to the IF. In the present work, the IF and modulus behaviour of several Ni–Mn–Ga alloys will be reviewed and compared to that observed for “classical” systems like Cu- or NiTi-based shape memory alloys.     

Influence of alloying elements on as-cast microstructure and strength of gray iron

Casting experiments were carried out to produce gray cast irons with compositions in the range (wt.%): Fe–3.2C–wCu–xMo–yMn–zSi, where w = 0.78–1.79, x = 0.11–1.17, y = 0.68–2.34 and z = 1.41–2.32. These key elements were varied systematically during sand casting into 30-mm diameter bars to assess their influence on the development of microstructure and mechanical properties. It was found that microstructures ranging from fully pearlitic to an intimate mixture of retained austenite and bainitic ferrite, termed ausferrite, were produced and a reasonable linear correlation was observed between ausferrite volume fraction and strength. The optimum combination of mechanical properties was achieved in an alloy of approximate composition Fe–3.2C–1.0Cu–0.7Mo–0.55Mn–2.0Si, which generated 100% ausferrite without alloy carbides. This alloy has a microstructure and mechanical properties comparable to austempered gray iron without many of the problems associated with austempering.     

The effects of trace Sc and Zr on microstructure and internal friction of Zn–Al eutectoid alloy

The damping properties of Zn–22 wt.% Al alloys without and with Sc (0.55 wt.%) and Zr (0.26 wt.%) were investigated. The internal friction of the determined by the microstructure has been measured in terms of logarithmic decrement (δ) using a low frequency inverted torsion pendulum over the temperature region of 10–230 °C. An internal friction peak was separately observed at about 218 °C in the Zn–Al alloy and at about 195 °C in Zn–Al–Sc–Zr alloy. The shift of the δ peak was found to be directly attributed to the precipitation of Al₃(Sc, Zr) phases from the alloy matrix. We consider that the both internal friction peak in the alloy originates from grain boundary (GB) relaxation, but the grain boundary relaxation can also be affected by Al–Sc–Zr intermetallics at the grain boundaries, which will impede grain boundary sliding. In addition, Al–Sc–Zr intermetallics at the grain boundaries can pin grain boundaries, and inhibit the growth of grains in aging, which increases the damping stability of Zn–22 wt.% Al alloy.     

Internal friction during martensitic transformation in high manganese Mn–Cu alloys

Low-frequency internal friction and elastic modulus were studied for manganese-rich Mn–Cu alloys in the temperature range of martensitic transformation (20–300 °C). It is shown that the some special features of the transformation peak and its temperature are caused by the degree of the spinodal decomposition. The phenomenological model connecting an-elastic effects with the stages of evolution of the structure during martensitic transformation in manganese-rich Mn–Cu alloys (tweed structure–“parquet” structure–classical twinning martensite) is presented.     

Thermal stability and elevated temperature mechanical properties of electroslag remelted Fe-16wt.%Al-(0.14–0.5)wt.%C intermetallic alloys

Addition of carbon in the range of 0,14–0.5 wt.% to the Fe₃Al-based intermetallic Fe-16wt.%Al (Fe-28at.%Al) alloy results in the formation of a thermally stable dispersion of Fe,AIC carbide phase. The volume fraction of these precipitates increases with increase in carbon content. Processing of these alloys through a combination of air induction melting and electroslag remelting leads to enhanced elevated temperature mechanical properties compared to those reported for the low (< 0.01 wt.%) carbon alloys with similar Al contents. Enhancement of up to 30% in elevated temperature yield strength was observed at the test temperatures (600, 700 and 800°C) used. The improvement in mechanical properties may be attributed to the presence of strengthening Fe₃AlC phase as well as the interstitial carbon present in the alloy matrix. The addition of carbon also leads to improved room temperature mechanical properties in contrast with other alloying additions (such as Mo, Ti and Si) used for enhancing elevated temperature properties of Fe₃Al-based intermetallic alloys. It is suggested that carbon may be an important alloying addition to these alloys.     

The effect of copper addition on the structure and strength of an Al–Li alloy

In this study the effect of copper addition on the structure, precipitation kinetics and hardness in the Al–Li and Al–Li–Cu alloys aged at 200°C was investigated. The structures of precipitates were studied using X-ray-small-angle-scattering (XSAS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods. The changes in the structure parameter (Rg) of both alloys was calculated using two methods, the Guinier approximation and correlation function γ(r). By use of a plot of r γ(r) the distribution law of the T₁ disc thickness was obtained and the coexisting spherical particles of δ′ were estimated. Two types of δ′ precipitates of approximately 2 nm size and above 8 nm and the T₁ precipitates of thickness between 3 and 4 nm were observed.     

Effect of small γ-precipitates on the two-way shape memory effect in Cu–Zn–Al alloys

The γ-precipitates in Cu–Zn–Al alloys, trained by the stabilization of the stress induced martensite (SSIM) method, have been studied. After the SSIM treatment, it was found that small γ-precipitates in the β-austenite are ellipsoidal, with a large strain field oriented in the same direction; while in the martensite the γ-precipitates changed their shape from ellipsoid to spheroid, and relaxed their strain fields. In order to check whether the strain field of the γ-precipitates is capable of producing a thermoelastic martensitic transformation, an in-situ observation, by heating a sample holder in TEM, was performed. It was found that during heating over a temperature A_s, the γ-precipitates with a spherical shape in the martensite recovered their strain field and elliptical shape. During cooling, the strain field of the γ-precipitates disappeared again. It was proposed that the strain field of the γ-precipitates, trained by the SSIM method, plays an important part in the thermoelastic martensitic transformation, and presents two-way shape memory effects.