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Influence of grain size on the mechanical behaviour of some high strength materials

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Abstract

Combining in an additive or synergetic manner the most potent strengthening mechanisms available in an alloy is the art of the metallurgist. The various models proposed in the literature in order to interpret the Hall-Petch relation are critically reviewed by comparison with experimental data. The pile-up models and the work hardening theories must include the inner structure of the grain in the case of alloys hardened by a second phase. Similarly, the properties and structure of the grain boundaries are influenced by impurities or the presence of particles. Ultra-fine grain sizes can provide ductility to high strength materials when surface preparation eliminates microcracks.

In steady-state creep equations, introducing the influence of grain size in complex alloys by incorporating the Hall-Petch stress as one component of the internal stress helps in rationalizing the existence of an optimal grain size where creep resistance is maximized. Slower crack growth rates can be obtained by controlling the grain boundary structure as well as grain size. Fatigue tests at room temperature clearly point out the interest of small grain sizes for reducing crack initiation, usually associated, however, with lower propagation threshold and somewhat faster growth rates.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Av Division Leclerc, Direction des Matériaux, ONERA, 92320, Chatillon, France

    A. Lasalmonie

  2. Ecole des Mines de Paris, Centre des Matériaux, BP 87, 91003, Evry, France

    J. L. Strudel

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  1. A. Lasalmonie
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Lasalmonie, A., Strudel, J.L. Influence of grain size on the mechanical behaviour of some high strength materials. J Mater Sci 21, 1837–1852 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00547918

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