Fresh insights into microstructure, deformation & processes using nondestructive methodologies

Abstract

Characterisation of microstructures and deformation processes, which are very important inputs to fracture mechanics based life prediction philosophies, have primarily relied on destructive methodologies. However, in the past few decades, there has been a growing interest in the use of non-destructive methodologies for achieving the same. This paper discusses in detail, a few of the important developments made in the area at the Division for PIE and NDT Development, Indira Ganhi Centre for Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, using techniques such as Magnetic Bakhausen Noise analysis, Acoustic Emission, Ultrasonic techniques, X-ray Diffraction and Infrared Thermography. These techniques have been used for the characterization of both microstructure and deformation processes in wide ranging materials including, ferritic steels, stainless steels, precipitation hardenable steels, zircalloy and Nimonic alloys.