Alloys-by-design: Towards optimization of compositions of nickel-based superalloys

The composition of a range of different nickel-based superalloys are isolated using theory-based computational modeling, termed 'Alloys-by-Design' methods. Each alloy has been designed with different applications in mind. A polycrystalline alloy is designed for turbine disc applications, here emphasis is placed on the composition dependence of strength. Examples of the design tradeoffs faced when increasing alloy strength are presented. Three new single crystal alloy compositions are designed. They are (i) a second generation type alloy with a reduced level of rhenium, (ii) a creep resistant alloy designed for high performance jet applications and (iii) a low cost corrosion resistant alloy designed specifically for industrial gas turbine applications. In each case the newly designed alloys have been manufactured. Design critical properties are measured and compared with modeling predictions to test the accuracy of this alloy design approach.