Production of P/M Near-Net Shape superalloy Hardware

Powder metallurgy (P/M) technology has been identified as a major means for reducing critical element usage for superalloy turbine engine hardware. Utilizing quality and process control, a P/M process has been successfully developed and applied to producing hardware for General Electric's T700 engine used in the Army's Blackhawk helicopter. Utilizing the process, a cost saving of approximately $3000 per engine has been realized and a weight reduction of 40 lbs of superalloy starting material per engine has been achieved. Over 6000 parts have been produced to date and more than 800 engines have been delivered. The high time engine has achieved over 1900 hours operating time. A total of over 200,000 engine operating hours have been accumulated by as-HIP turbine hardware. This engine experience and mechanical property data show that the P/M process is capable of producing high quality reliable hardware for turbine engine applications.