Chapter 1: Introduction

Superalloys, although not strictly defined, are generally regarded as high-performance alloys based on group VIII elements (nickel, cobalt, or iron, with a high percentage of nickel) to which a multiplicity of alloying elements have been added. The defining feature of a superalloy is its combination of relatively high mechanical strength and surface stability at high operating temperatures. This chapter provides a brief history of the development of superalloys and discusses their use in the gas turbine engines.