Abstract
Superalloys are complex alloys of Fe-Ni, Ni, or Co-base compositions. Their microstructure can be quite complex due to the potential for a variety of phases that can be formed by heat treatment or service exposure conditions. The paper presents the use of new metallographic materials to prepare these alloys with emphasis on modern, four- and five-step practices. Different etchants are required to reveal the structure of these alloys properly. Examples will be presented showing the use of different etchants as a function of alloy composition, heat treatment, and microstructural phases.
The articles and presentations that can be down-loaded from this web site are based upon work done by GFV while employed at Bethlehem Steel (1967-1983), Carpenter Technology (1983-1996), Buehler Ltd. (1996-2009) and Struers (2009-Present) and from the authors consulting work for companies such as, Latrobe Steel, Scot Forge, etc., and from his litigation work. GFV's bylined articles appearing in various issues of the ASM Handbook series have been listed here courtesy of ASM International, Materials Park, Ohio.