Overview of 3D printing nickel-based alloy IN738 powder
IN-738 is a vacuum investment casting precipitation hardening nickel-based superalloy containing four refractory elements (Nb, Ta, Mo, W). It has superior creep strength and heat-corrosion resistance to other low-chromium high-strength superalloys and is usually used as turbine blades and valves for gas turbines.
The full name of IN-738 alloy is Inconel 738, which was developed by Licensees of International Nickel in the United States. Existing data show that, depending on the carbon content, IN-738 also has two modified alloys, of which IN-738LC is a low-carbon type and IN-738FC is an ultra-low-carbon type. In the general literature, IN-738X is generally used to refer to IN-738 alloy including its modified alloy.

 

Properties of 3D printing nickel-based alloy IN738 powder
Physical properties
The physical properties of In-738 alloy are as follows: density 0.293lb/in3, specific gravity 8.11, melting temperature range 2250-2400°F.
Corrosion resistance
The thermal corrosion resistance of IN-738 alloy is better than most existing high-strength high-temperature alloys. IN-738 alloy has good oxidation resistance below 2000°F. In the simulation test of the molten salt mixture and injected fuel below 1800°F, the resistance of IN-738 alloy to sulfur is better than other alloys with similar strength. In the 1800 °F combustion chamber test, IN-738 alloy also has good resistance to hydrogen sulfide and sulfur oxide corrosion.
 
Castability and casting process
3D printing nickel-based alloy IN738 powder usually adopts vacuum melting [vacuum induction melting (YIM) and vacuum arc remelting (ARM)] and vacuum investment casting. The typical pouring conditions are: smelting at a temperature exceeding the liquidus temperature of 200 to 400 °F, and preheating the mold to 1500 to 1800 °F. Some parts require other conditions, depending on the size and geometry of the part.
In IN-738 alloy investment casting, the liquid superheating temperature, pouring temperature, the time required for the shell mold to reach the equilibrium point, cooling rate and subsequent heat treatment parameters, etc., all affect the microstructure characteristics of the casting, such as grain size and Grain orientation, dendrite arm spacing, aggregation and distribution of γ'phase, and mechanical properties have a strong influence. And these effects cannot be changed or eliminated in the subsequent heat treatment.
 
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