Effect of metallurgical variables on void swelling
The mechanism of void swelling is reviewed briefly and the anticipated effects of metallurgical variables are described. Experimental results showing the effects of metallurgical variables are reviewed, most of the work being done by simulation methods employing charged particle bombardments to simulate reactor damage. Although the early emphasis was on structural variables such as grain size, cold work and precipitates to control swelling, it now seems that the practical reduction of swelling will be achieved by modifying alloy composition. Void swelling is strongly influenced by the relative amounts of Fe, Cr, and Ni in an alloy; the amount of swelling can be varied by three orders of magnitude by changing the relative amounts of the three elements in an austenitic ternary alloy. The effect of composition on swelling of a simple ferritic alloy will also be described. The swelling of a simple austenitic alloy of Fe, Cr, and Ni can be reduced by certain minor element additions. The most effective swelling inhibitors are Si, Ti, Zr, and Nb, and combinations of Si and Ti are synergetic. Swelling reductions of two orders of magnitude have been achieved with combined additions. Predictions of swelling in commercial solid solution alloys are made on the basis of the present knowledge of the effects of major composition and minor element additions. The predictions agree with experimental results. For more complex commercial alloys, predictions are made for the effects on swelling of heat treatments that cause changes in matrix composition. In some cases, heat treatment is expected to change the peak swelling by more than a factor of ten, and to shift the peak swelling temperature by almost 100/sup 0/C. Sensitivity of swelling to detailed matrix composition places emphasis on the need for developing understanding of the stability of structure and local composition in an irradiation environment.
- Research Organization:
- General Electric Co., Sunnyvale, CA (USA). Fast Breeder Reactor Dept.
- OSTI ID:
- 7321858
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-751164-5; TRN: 77-005743
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Conference on radiation damage in metals, Cincinnati, OH, USA, 9 Nov 1975
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
CHROMIUM ALLOYS
PHYSICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
IRON ALLOYS
NICKEL ALLOYS
STAINLESS STEELS
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
HEAT TREATMENTS
ION BEAMS
METALLURGY
QUANTITY RATIO
SIMULATION
SWELLING
VOIDS
ALLOYS
BEAMS
CORROSION RESISTANT ALLOYS
IRON BASE ALLOYS
RADIATION EFFECTS
STEELS
360106* - Metals & Alloys- Radiation Effects