Properties of Superalloys

Cobalt Based: Cobalt based superalloys have strong magnetic properties. For the most part Cobalt can be used in place of Nickle in an alloy, however, it melts at a fairly low temperature, which allows it to fill the grains in some alloys and act as a binder. Other than  Cobalt also has the ability to absorb neutrons, because of this it is severely restricted for use in alloys that see atomic energy.

Most superalloys are thermodynamically unstable, meaning that they can have adverse reactions to changes in temperature or even to being at certain temperatures.  In order for them to receive the desired properties they must be cooled very slowly and have the proper ratios of metals.

Nickel Based: Nickel based superalloys are the strongest type of superalloys.  They have the strongest tensil strength, crack growth, and crack creep at temperatures reaching 750 degrees C.

Iron Based: Iron based superalloys tend to be used for the things iron is traditionally associated with, strength and corrosion.  However, Iron based superalloys are also highly resistant to oxidation.

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