Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the U.S. National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) have developed an innovative alloy specifically designed for Additive Manufacturing, offering significant advancements in the production of turbine blades. This newly created material can operate at temperatures exceeding 1,316ºC (2,400ºF) without melting, while maintaining its structural integrity.
High-Temperature Performance
The alloy, a complex concentrated material rich in niobium, is engineered to withstand extreme temperatures that surpass those endured by conventional nickel and cobalt superalloys. Researchers fine-tuned the electron beam melting process to successfully produce crack-free components using this new material, which is expected to deliver substantial improvements in performance for applications like gas turbine engines.
According to Saket Thapliyal from ORNL, the achievement represents a breakthrough in Additive Manufacturing, as previous attempts to create high-temperature, lightweight materials without cracks had been unsuccessful. Thapliyal highlighted the material’s significance: “We’re making something lighter that can hold its structural integrity at ultra-high temperatures,” which could change the aerospace industry by providing more efficient and robust turbine blades.
Potential for Reduced Carbon Emissions
The lightweight nature of the alloy, combined with its ability to withstand ultra-high temperatures, makes it ideal for use in turbine blades, particularly in gas turbine engines for airplanes. These engines often experience extreme thermal conditions, and the improved material could reduce their carbon footprint by enabling better heat resistance and efficiency in operation.
By advancing the development of high-temperature alloys for Additive Manufacturing, ORNL and NETL are paving the way for more sustainable and efficient energy systems in the aviation sector.
Source: pm-review.com