Process for making nickel-based superalloys

TLDR: In this paper, a process for making nickel-based superalloys that possess excellent high-temperature properties is described, which includes the steps of providing a metal powder having a controlled amount of oxygen and carbon which is confined and densified at an elevated temperature forming a billet that can be further deformed, if desired, to provide an appropriate shaped component.

Abstract: A process for making nickel-based superalloys that possess excellent high-temperature properties which includes the steps of providing a metal powder having a controlled amount of oxygen and carbon which is confined and densified at an elevated temperature forming a billet that can be further deformed, if desired, to provide an appropriate shaped component. Thereafter, the billet or deformed part is subjected to heat treatment to effect a growth in the grain size thereof to attain optimum physical properties, whereafter the alloy is carburized to increase the carbon content thereof to a level in excess of about 500 parts per million (ppm) which is performed in a manner so as to preferentially promote carbide formation at the grain boundaries of the alloy, thereby stabilizing the alloy against further grain growth when subjected to elevated temperatures during use.