Oxidation Characteristics and Oxide Layer Evolution of Alloy 617 and Haynes 230 at 900 °C and 1100 °C

Abstract

To evaluate the oxidation resistance of Alloy 617 and Haynes 230, oxidation tests were performed at 900 °C and 1100 °C in air and helium environments. Scale characterizations were assessed on specimens exposed to air using thin-film XRD, XPS, SEM and EDX. Oxidation resistance was dependent on the stability of the surface oxide layer, which can be affected by minor alloying elements such as Ti and Mn. At 900 °C, for Alloy 617, a mixture of the extensive NiO–Cr₂O₃ double layer and isolated NiO–NiCr₂O₄–Cr₂O₃ triple layer were observed at a steady-state condition. For Haynes 230, a MnCr₂O₄ layer was formed on top of the Cr₂O₃ layer, resulting in a lower oxidation rate. At 1100 °C, both alloys showed a double layer consisting of an inner Cr₂O₃ and outer MnCr₂O₄ or TiO₂. The spallation of outer layer and subsequent volatilization of the Cr₂O₃ layer produced a rugged surface and interface as well as internal oxidation.