Hardness Prediction in the Ni-Based Superalloy GTD-111 Using Quench Factor Analysis (QFA)

Prediction of mechanical properties for different alloys is an appropriate way to design alloys with adequate properties. One of the methods is Quench-Factor Analysis (QFA). The technique is used to predict mechanical properties of heat treated alloys. However, there is not yet any study concentrated on superalloys. In the present study, the efficiency of the method for the prediction of hardness of the Ni-based superalloy GTD-111 was evaluated. For this reason, some specimens were quenched in different quenching media. After measuring the hardness values of the samples, they were fitted to the data obtained using classical equations of quench factor analysis. Values k2 to k3 for GTD-111 were determined as 12×10-11 s and 68 j.mol-1, respectively using the cooling curves and measured hardness values. Moreover, the Time-Temperature-Property curve of the superalloy GTD-111 was obtained using the k2 to k5 constants. The results showed that, QFA is an appropriate method for hardness prediction of the Ni-based superalloys.