Superalloys for high-temperature applications: An overview

The evolution of what is now known as superalloys is examined from the early days. Prior to the development of the aircraft gas turbine, low-alloy creep resisting steels for steam raising plants or heat-resistant alloys for relatively low-stress furnace components were the major areas of focus. Exhaust valves and turbo supercharger rotors were two issues with piston aero-engines, and specific materials for these parts were invented, mostly on the basis of high-temperature tensile strength. This review article summarizes the basic metallurgical aspects of super alloy, their processing method, and their role in high-temperature application to combat wear issues.