Current creep models are derived using data from constant stress (or load) creep tests and are capable of accurately predicting creep behaviour when applied conditions are constant or near constant. However, analyses of creep curve shapes for the nickel based superalloy Waspaloy, when applied stress and/or temperature vary greatly during testing, have shown that predictive methods based purely on strain, time or life fraction are insufficient and cannot predict the observed creep rates. This is important when considering stress concentration features where stress relaxation due to creep can significantly alter the distribution of stress and thus affect fatigue life. When both stress and temperature are changed during a creep test, dislocation movement must proceed through a dislocation network formed under different conditions, resulting in greater than expected creep rates. It is proposed that this is due to a reduction in effective internal stress due to changes in dislocation structure.

 

W. Harrison, M.T. Whittaker, C.Deen

Materials Research Innovations, Volume 17, Number 5, August 2013 , pp. 323-326(4) doi:10.1179/1433075X13Y.0000000137