Evaluation of hot cracking in cupronickel and Monel alloys applying the Trans-Varestraint test
摘要
This study, conducted with utmost precision, aims to investigate the potential for hot crack formation in three different alloys: CuNi 70/30, CuNi 90/10, and NiCu Monel 60. The research method used in this study, the Trans-Varestraint test, is a widely recognised and standardised method for assessing the hot-cracking susceptibility of metallic materials, ensuring the reliability of the findings. The results were then analysed using statistical methods, and the solidification of the melted zone was simulated using Thermo-Calc® software, while the thermal conductivity was estimated with JMatPro® software. The statistical analysis of the Trans-Varestraint test results, a robust approach, indicated that the heat input did not affect the length of the cracks, but deformation and material were significant factors. The CuNi 70/30 alloy was found to have the lowest susceptibility to forming hot cracks among the alloys tested, demonstrating MCD and CSS results of 1.38 mm and 9.96 s−1, respectively. However, the results of the solidification ranges, brittle temperature range (BRT), and thermal conductivity differed from those obtained by the statistical analysis of the Trans-Varestraint test. This suggests the possibility of other mechanisms involved in forming cracks besides solidification cracks. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the susceptibility of CuNi alloys and NiCu Monel 60 to hot crack formation. From our findings, a testament to our methodology’s reliability could help develop more robust and reliable alloys for high-temperature applications, such as in the aerospace and petrochemical industries.