The Effect of Boron and Zirconium on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cast Fe3Al-Based Alloys

In this study, the effects of boron (B) and zirconium (Zr) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Fe3Al-based alloys were investigated. Cylindrical samples were produced using a vacuum induction melting furnace (VIM); consequently, the melt was cast into a metallic mold. The microstructure, phase identification, tensile and compressive mechanical properties and fractography of the samples were investigated. Upon microstructural observation, it was found that the alloys microstucture was denderitic and the precipitated phases were mostly present between interdendritic regions. Addition of B and Zr to the alloys resulted in the formation of boride precipitates and Laves phases. The results, therefore, showed that Zr had the most pronounced effect on the mechanical properties because of the formation of Laves phases. Fractographic studies of alloys also revealed that the brittle fracture was dominant between the samples.