Co-optimization of wrought alumina-forming austenitic stainless steel composition ranges for high-temperature creep and oxidation/corrosion resistance

A series of candidate alumina-forming austenitic (AFA) stainless steels designed to evaluate the effects of variation in Al, C, Cr, Mn, Nb, and Ni content on high-temperature tensile properties, creep, and oxidation/corrosion resistance were studied. The compositions assessed were based on medium Ni (20–25 wt%) and low Ni (12 wt%) AFA variations strengthened primarily by MC and/or M23C6 carbide precipitates, and a high Ni (32 wt%) AFA superalloy variation strengthened primarily by γ′-Ni3Al intermetallic precipitates. Tensile and creep properties were measured at 650 and 750/760 °C, oxidation resistance from 650 to 900 °C in air with water vapor and steam environments, and sulfidation–oxidation resistance in Ar–20%H2–20%H2O–5% H2S at 550 and 650 °C. Optimized composition ranges for different use temperatures ranges based on these evaluations are presented.