In-situ scanning electron microscopy studies of small fatigue crack growth in recrystallized layer of a directionally solidified superalloy

The small fatigue crack behavior in the surface recrystallized layer of a nickel-based directionally solidified superalloy DZ4 was studied by in-situ scanning electron microscopy. Transgranular cracking manner was identified at 350 °C, distinct from the intergranular fracture of recrystallized grains reported formerly. The transition of fracture mode is attributed to the effect of temperature, which should be particularly concerned in the safety of turbine components with recrystallization. The discontinuous crack growth in recrystallized layer is associated with the local microstructure. Carbide can act as crack source, and barrier to the crack growth as well. Effect of twin boundary on impeding the fatigue crack is evident.