Creep strain modeling of 9 to 12 pct Cr steels based on microstructure evolution

Creep deformation is simulated for 9 pct Cr steels by using the Norton equation with the addition of back stresses from dislocations and precipitates. The composite model is used to represent the heterogeneous dislocation structure found in 9 to 12 pct Cr steels. Dislocation evolution is modeled by taking capturing and annihilation of free dislocations into account. Recovery of immobile dislocations is derived from the ability of dislocation climb. In spite of the fact that the initial dislocation density is high and is reduced during creep, primary creep is successfully modeled for a P92 steel. Subgrain growth is evaluated using a model by Sandstrom (1977). The long time subgrain size corresponds well to a frequently used empirical relation, with subgrain size inversely proportional to the applied stress.