Fe simulation of microstructure evolution during ring rolling process of Inconel alloy 783

In this study, microstructure evolution during ring rolling process of INCONEL alloy 783 (Alloy 783) was investigated with the combined approaches of 3-D FEM (Finite Element Method) simulation and microstructure prediction model. A microstructure prediction model was developed by considering the effects of process variables on recrystallization and grain growth behavior. The model was established by the analysis of hot compression and isothermal heat treatment test results. From the analysis of isothermal heat treatment tests, it can be found that the rate of grain growth dramatically increases after the dissolution of b phase, which acts as an obstacle to grain boundary movement. In order to consider the effect of b phase on grain growth, an additional equation in the transition temperature region was interposed. Microstructure evolution during ring rolling process of Alloy 783 was calculated by de-coupled approach between FEM analysis and microstructure prediction model. The prediction results were compared with the experimental ones. (AU) © 2010 by The Materials, Metals, & Materials Society. All rights reserved.