This book describes systematically the theory and technology of the precision forming of large, complex and thin-walled superalloy castings for aircraft engines, covering all the important basic aspects of the manufacturing process, including process design, wax pattern, ceramic molds, casting and solidification, heat treatment, repair casting and dimension precision control. The correlation of casting defects, structural characteristics and performance of castings is revealed through a range of tests. It also discusses the latest technologies and advances in this field – such as imaging the solidification process by means of synchrotron radiography, 3D computerized tomography and reconstruction of microporosity defects, analysis and diagnosis of error sources for dimension over-tolerance and adjusted pressure casting technology – which are of particular interest. Providing essential insights, the book offers a valuable guide to the design and manufacture of superalloy casting parts for aircraft engines.

Superalloys are unique high-temperature materials used in gas turbine engines, which display excellent resistance to mechanical and chemical degradation. This book introduces the metallurgical principles which have guided their development. Suitable for graduate students and researchers, it includes exercises and additional resources at www.cambridge.org/9780521859042.

Annotation A design textbook attempting to bridge the gap between traditional academic textbooks, which emphasize individual concepts and principles; and design handbooks, which provide collections of known solutions. The airbreathing gas turbine engine is the example used to teach principles and methods. The first edition appeared in 1987. The disk contains supplemental material. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com).