The reply to metalguy:
Well I think that Cr{sub-n)C(sub-m) precipitation could be beneficial in two ways.
1. Mostly homogeneous neuclation-> The CrC precipitates are coherent to the matrix of the metal and very very small (almost a G-P Zone, maybe a little bigger) this causes the lattice to be under significant strain thus causing moving dislocations to leave a dislocation loop around them, the resulting stress field causes resistance to the movement of future dislocations. IE a form of Precipitation Hardening, also may increase fatigue life by preventing crack propagation.
2. Mostly Heterogeneous neucleation of M23C6, M6C, and MC -> These large precipitates (carbides of wich Cr can be used, although Ti, Mo, or W also may play a role) of wich M23C6 is the one stable to 875*C, provide an increse in creap strength for some alloys. This occurs due to the formation of large carbides (M23C6) on the grain boundry in wrought superalloys. While also surrounded by and aided by the (gamma prime) precipitate, the carbides provide some stability to the grain boundry and "pin" them into place.
(the above is condensed and drawn from "Physical Metallurgy Principals" 3rd ed. R.E. Reed-Hill and R. Abbaschian)
well do i get a star?
(I may be completly wrong about the above. If I am then please feel free to let me know and I will have this post deleted)
nick