Ball-indentation test technique for evaluating thermal and creep damage of modified 9Cr-1Mo steel

The Ball-Indentation (BI) testing based on multiple cycles of loading-unloading using a spherical indenter is a useful technique for evaluating tensile properties from a very small volume of material. In this study, the BI technique has been used in a novel way to evaluate the changes in mechanical properties of Modified (Mod) 9Cr-1Mo caused by creep exposures. Microstructural degradation of varying degrees in Mod 9Cr-1Mo steel is simulated by conventional creep test terminated at various strains. By carrying out BI tests on unstressed head and stressed gage portions of the creep specimens, the changes in the strength and ductility are evaluated. Microstructural evolution in the creep exposed conditions studied using transmission electron microscopy is related to the strength changes caused by the stressed exposures.