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Project title

Mechanisms-based materials design for high temperature applications

Primary Funding Agency

Irish Research Council

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Environmental Protection Agency

Lead Organisation

National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)

Lead Applicant

Cathal � Murch�

Project Abstract

This increased flexibility in operation of plant increases thermo-mechanical fatigue (TMF) incomponents such as steam headers. Thermo-mechanical fatigue is due to cyclic thermal expansion and contraction, causing dynamic stress states in components. Currently,materials development has been focused on resisting creep damage, leading to new materials such as MarBN. Creep is a damage mechanism that occurs as a result of longterm loading and high temperatures allow for creep to occur in shorted time frames.However the ability of these materials to withstand TMF and corrosion damage is not well understood. For Ireland, this means that the flexible operating conditions are resulting inunpredictable failures, costing power providers millions of euro. This research aims to bridge this knowledge gap, by characterising the mechanisms where damage is caused by a combination of creep, fatigue and corrosion.A mechanisms-based model for predicting Type IV cracking in the heat affected zone (HAZ)of welded specimens will be developed using the data gathered from an extensive experimental program. Simulated HAZ specimens will be developed to verify that the new heat treatments can withstand the Type IV cracking. The effects of varying chemical composition and heat treatment will be investigated in order to design a material capable of resisting creep-fatigue-corrosion damage.

Grant Approved

�96,000.00

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

Resource efficiency

Start Date

01/10/2015

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/10/2019