Inconel Creep Strain Behavior
The time- and temperature-dependent plastic deformation behavior of nickel-base alloys under constant mechanical load. It determines the maximum service life of components in the high-temperature range.
Creep strain is an issue with Inconel and other nickel-based alloys when the component is under load at high temperature for a long time. The material then deforms slowly, even if the stress is below the yield strength. When welding, this is particularly critical because the heat input changes the microstructure and can impair the creep strength in the heat-affected zone. Therefore, make sure to keep the heat input low and monitor the interpass temperature. If you are repairing a weld in the creep range, you must keep the previous microstructural damage in mind, otherwise the component will crack again at the weld later.