Recent developments in NiAl technology

NiAl alloys offer significant payoffs as structural materials in gas turbine applications due to high melting temperature, low density and high thermal conductivity. Significant improvements in the material properties, processing and design methodology have been achieved. High strength NiAl alloys which compete with Ni-base superalloys have been developed. NiAl alloys have been successfully manufactured into a variety of turbine components. A high pressure turbine vane has been successfully engine tested. However, limited ductility and toughness as well as poor impact resistance continue to be critical issues which will impede near term production implementation.