Analysis of Diffusional Solidification in a Wide-Gap Brazing Powder Mixture Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry

The diffusional solidification (DS) of a mixed powder system, consisting of pure Ni base metal powder and BNi-2 braze powder, suitable for wide-gap brazing was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and parallel microstructural examination. It was determined that very little interdiffusion between the powders developed in the solid state prior to braze powder melting. Once liquid formed, rapid DS occurred such that, when the powders were loosely mixed together, only 20 to 50 wt pct of the potential liquid fraction actually developed, leading to poor densification. Separating the braze and Ni into a layered structure leads to less DS, increased liquid formation (i.e., 35 to 80 wt pct of the potential liquid fraction) and improved densification. The rate of isothermal solidification in layered structures consisting of 30 and 40 wt pct BNi-2 braze material was determined using DSC. After 30 minutes of braze time at 1323 K (1050 °C), complete IS occurred, thus avoiding the formation of a continuous network of large borides. The final microstructure of the IS mixtures consisted of a continuous matrix of solid solution Ni, with isolated and dispersed borides.