METALLOGRAPHIC PREPARATION FOR THE MICROSTRUCTURAL CHARACTERIZATION OF RHENIUM ALLOYS

摘要

Rhenium is used in a pure metallic form and as a component in molydbenum-rhenium (Mo-Re) and tungsten-rhenium (W-Re) alloys. The purpose of the present study was to determine a successful preparation method for W-Re alloys and then to characterize the microstructures. The materials studied included two different alloys with low rhenium content: W-3Re and high rhenium content W-25 Re various shapes and sizes. These materials were prepared by powder metallurgical technique, and samples were generated at Sandvik Rhenium Alloys. As illustrated with several photomicrographs, W-Re alloys can be metallographically prepared to reveal the true microstructures. By understanding the mechanisms of material removal and by applying advanced techniques in sample preparation, one can achieve minimal deformation or damage to the material to be characterized thereby revealing the microstructure as manufactured. Benefits from accurate microstructural analysis of the true structure allows one to characterize the final product in order to modify or alter the manufacturing process accordingly.