MECH-CS04
Mechanical Testing and Characterization of Superalloys
Dr. Calvin Stewart
Preferred major field of study or minimum required skills
Microsoft Excel, MathCAD, CAD Software, Structural Mechanics Background.
Scholarly significance/intellectual merit
The purpose of this research project is to develop a three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D DIC) technique that is capable of testing Nickel-based superalloys, among other materials, in order to study their strain displacement fields as high temperatures. Nickel-based superalloys are of particular importance to the Materials at Extremes Research Group (MERG) because they exhibit a remarkable combination of high-temperature strength, toughness, and resistance to degradation in corrosive or oxidizing environments. Because of their superior properties, Nickel-based superalloys are widely used in the aerospace field as materials in gas-turbine engines; thus, fully understanding the deformation and failure characteristics of these materials is crucial to developing predictive models and making stronger materials. In order to meet our objective of developing a 3D DIC technique, we propose modifying existing equipment at the MERG laboratory to conduct mechanical testing experiments on Nickel-based superalloys.
Research question(s)
It is hypothesized that an Integrated High-Temperature 3D Digital Image Correlation System can be created by the MERG Team.
Methods/techniques/instruments to be learned/utilized
The student involved in this project will learn how to operate a universal testing machine, configure a high temperature split tube furnace, and perform HT 3D DIC using UTEP’s world class structural mechanics facilities.