Powder processing of nickel and other aluminides by hot consolidation

Alloys based on FeAl, NiAl, and Ni3Al have been processed by extrusion of powders over a range of compositions, powder characteristics, and extrusion parameters. It is found that extrusion leads to dynamic recrystallization and that the grain size of the extrusions depends on the powder size, extrusion temperature, and extrusion ratio. Prior particle boundary oxides play an important role in controlling the grain size and uniformity by acting as obstacles to grain growth. Hot isostatic pressing and vacuum hot pressing can be used for powder densification, but prior particle oxides are not effectively broken up due to insufficient shearing deformation.