Effect of B on microstructure and properties of low thermal expansion superalloy

The effect of B on microstructure and various properties including coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), HV hardness, and both smooth and notch stress rupture properties of modified Thermo-Span alloy was studied. The results show that B hardly dissolves in matrix. Increasing B content constrains the formation of Laves phase and grain boundary (GB) precipitation of Laves and G phases, but promotes the formation of M(Co, Fe)NbB boride. In low B doped alloy, its intrinsic high susceptibility to intergranular cracks leads to reduced rupture life and notch sensitivity. Increasing B improves grain boundary cohesion, tying up vacancies and reducing GB diffusion, which constrains the nucleation and propagation of intergranular microcracks, prolongs the rupture life and eliminates the notch sensitivity in the new alloy. Compared with conventional Thermo-Span alloy, the B doped modified alloy shows lower CTE and improved notch sensitivity.