Wrought Superalloys and Cast Superalloys

Superalloys can be classified into two major categories based on their forming methods: wrought superalloys and cast superalloys.

Wrought superalloys typically refer to those alloys that are first melted and cast into qualified ingots, which are then processed through hot or cold working to form various profiles or part blanks. These alloys are ultimately used to manufacture hot-end components, and a key requirement is that the alloy ingot must have the capability for deformation processing.

In a strict sense, powder superalloys and oxide dispersion-strengthened (ODS) superalloys should also be classified as wrought superalloys since they also require deformation processing to produce part blanks. However, unlike conventional wrought superalloys, their ingots are not directly processed into final shapes through deformation. Instead, they are first converted into fine powders, which are then consolidated into alloy ingots. Alternatively, different elemental powders are blended in specific ratios and undergo mechanical alloying to create superalloy powders with dispersed oxide particles. These powders are then densified using methods such as hot isostatic pressing (HIP) or hot extrusion, followed by deformation processing. Despite these similarities, powder and ODS superalloys are often classified separately.

Cast superalloys, on the other hand, are produced by melting and directly casting qualified ingots into parts or part blanks without undergoing deformation processing.