A unified dislocation density-based model for an aged polycrystalline Ni-based superalloy considering the coupled effects of complicate deformation mechanisms and initial δ phase.

The flow characteristics and microstructure evolution of an aged nickel-based superalloy are researched by thermal compression experiments at different temperatures (1223–1283 K) and strain rates (0.001–0.1 s−1). Based on the theoretical analysis, the dynamic recrystallization kinetics and the evolution of grain size are quantitatively modeled. A unified dislocation density-based model is developed to characterize the flow features of the researched superalloy. In the developed model, the work hardening effect is taken into account by involving the coupled effects between the dislocations and substructures/grain boundaries/δ phases. Especially, the initial contents/morphologies of δ phase are reasonably considered. The dynamic softening mechanisms including dynamic recrystallization and dynamic recovery are considered. The comparisons between the predicted and experimental data indicate that the developed unified model can make accurate predictions for the flow stresses of the aged nickel-based superalloy at constant or variable strain rates. Also, it is found that the morphology of δ phase gradually transforms from spherical to short-rod-like or needle-like with the increased aging time. The dissolution and bend of δ phase induced by dislocation movement easily occur. Besides, the DRX behavior is accelerated, and the grains are refined as the aging time is increased. • Flow characteristics and microstructure evolution of an aged nickel-based superalloy are researched. • A unified dislocation density-based model is developed to describe the flow features of the studied alloy. • The coupled effects between the dislocations and substructures/grain boundaries/δ phases are considered. • The δ phase gradually transforms from spherical to short-rod-like or needle-like with increasing aging time. • The dissolution and bend of δ phase induced by dislocation movement usually occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]