Superalloy

Superalloys are alloys which have a number of properties that enable them to operate in high-performance environments such as the hot zones of turbine engines. They typically exhibit high temperature creep resistance, mechanical strength, phase stability and excellent fatigue life. Additionally, superalloys form a protective oxide layer when exposed to oxygen which gives oxidation and corrosion resistance.

The crystal structure of superalloys is typically austenitic face-centred cubic, and they are generally categorised into three main groups: cobalt-based, nickel-based and iron-based superalloys.