VKh4L Nickel Alloy
General Technical Characteristics
VKh4L is a heat-resistant cast nickel-based alloy developed for manufacturing components that operate at elevated temperatures and in oxidizing environments. The material is a cast modification of the VKh4A alloy and is used to produce shaped castings for gas turbine engines.
The alloy is characterized by its high chromium content, which provides heat resistance and resistance to gas corrosion. Additional alloying with molybdenum, tungsten, niobium, titanium, and aluminum helps improve its strength and operating properties.
VKh4L-VI belongs to the group of vacuum-melted heat-resistant cast alloys. The main regulatory standard is OST 1 90126-85. Technical specifications TU 1-809-1025-98 may also apply.
Chemical Composition
| Element | Content, % |
|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | Balance |
| Chromium (Cr) | 32.0–35.0 |
| Tungsten (W) | 4.3–5.5 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.3–3.5 |
| Niobium (Nb) | 0.7–1.3 |
| Titanium (Ti) | 0.7–1.3 |
| Aluminum (Al) | 0.7–1.3 |
| Carbon (C) | 0.03–0.10 |
| Silicon (Si) | Max. 0.3 |
| Iron (Fe) | Max. 0.5 |
| Sulfur (S) | Max. 0.01 |
| Boron (B) | Max. 0.008 |
| Cerium (Ce) | Max. 0.03 |
| Calcium (Ca) | Max. 0.02 |
| Yttrium (Y) | Max. 0.04 |
Boron, cerium, calcium, and yttrium may be introduced as microalloying additions in accordance with the applicable regulatory requirements. The actual elemental content should be verified against the quality certificate for the specific melt.
Mechanical and Operating Properties
The following mechanical properties are specified for VKh4L-VI under OST 1 90126-85:
- Ultimate tensile strength — at least 780 MPa.
- Elongation — at least 4%.
- Charpy impact toughness (KCU) — at least 196 kJ/m².
The following test conditions are specified for evaluating long-term strength:
- Test temperature — 800 °C.
- Applied stress — 206 MPa.
- Time to rupture — at least 40 hours.
Mechanical properties depend on the material condition and heat treatment. VKh4L-VI undergoes heat treatment that includes quenching followed by aging.
Applications of VKh4L Nickel Alloy
The primary application of VKh4L is the production of heat-resistant cast components and billets for gas turbine engines.
The alloy is used for:
- Manufacturing cast bar stock intended for subsequent remelting.
- Producing diffusers and swirlers for gas turbine engines.
- Manufacturing components of gas turbine combustion chamber front-end assemblies.
- Producing afterburner components.
- Manufacturing complex-shaped castings for aerospace and power generation equipment.
Features of VKh4L Alloy
The main features of this material include:
- High chromium concentration, providing heat resistance and oxidation resistance.
- A nickel-based composition that maintains service performance at elevated temperatures.
- Molybdenum and tungsten alloying to improve strength characteristics.
- Niobium, titanium, and aluminum additions that contribute to structural strengthening.
- Suitability for manufacturing complex cast components.
- Applicability to hot-section components of gas turbine engines.
VKh4L and VKh4L-VI are used as designations for this material group in reference and regulatory documentation. When ordering, it is important to specify the exact grade, melting method, and applicable standard.
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