This is a past event.

Materials Science and Engineering Seminar

Andrew Walch

MS Student, Materials Science and Engineering
Michigan Technological University

1:25–1:45 p.m.

Abstract

Enhancing power plant efficiency and reducing carbon emissions can be achieved by elevating operating temperatures and pressures. The adoption of ultra-supercritical power generation represents a contemporary approach that uses high entropy alloys (HEA) in high-temperature components to meet these conditions. These HEA are needing to be designed, optimized, and fabricated rapidly to match the fast paced advance of modern technology. This study aims to look into optimized HEA that were fabricated via wire arc additive manufacturing. The impact of incorporating vanadium or tungsten into the HEA was investigated through scanning electron microscopy. The specific outcomes in the study include cracking propensity, corrosion performance, and yield strength of the alloys to best simulate the environment of ultra-supercritical steam power plants.

Bio

Walch is an MS candidate working under the supervision of Paul Sanders. He received his BS in Materials Science and Engineering in spring 2023. His current research focuses on the microstructural analysis of nickel superalloys for ultra-supercritical steam power plants. Upon completing his MS, Walch plans to pursue his PhD at Michigan Tech.