How can you determine the creep life of a component?

Quantitative life prediction entails modelling these stages using analytical approaches and extrapolating data from accelerated tests. Microstructural stability for sustained creep resistance is demonstrated by ideal materials for a given operating temperature and stress level. For high-temperature applications, nickel, cobalt, and iron-based superalloys rely on solid-solution strengthening and precipitation hardening. Because of their high modulus at temperature, ceramic materials and ceramic matrix composites may also support load. Operating conditions eventually determine alloy and process selection in order to provide appropriate creep strength and damage tolerance over the component's necessary life.

Some parts has been already given its estimated perfomance based on methode described above. For example, when you look at a bearing list catalogue, you will find a Dynamic Load Rating value (Cr) of each size and type. Behind such number, there are many factors involved. Life performance of bearing can not be depended on 1 or 2 factors, but many.

Understanding creep behavior and its impact on component life involves various approaches. Data analysis may overlook factors like microstructure and loading history, while not providing a full understanding of underlying mechanisms. Simpler empirical equations like the Larson-Miller parameter, Monkman-Grant relation, and Dorn equation offer alternatives. However, they have limitations, such as assuming linear damage accumulation and neglecting fatigue-creep interaction. Caution should be exercised when using these methods, and validation through experimental data or other approaches is recommended. To summarize, use creep curves but also consider the limitations and verify findings which are important when analyzing creep behavior.

Determining the creep life of a component largely depends on the material selection. As a professional engineer, I've seen how material properties, like strength and temperature resistance, affect a component's ability to withstand long-term stress. For instance, in electronic hardware installations, choosing materials that can endure prolonged heat exposure without deforming is crucial. Here’s what you can do: Research and select materials known for their creep resistance, especially for components under continuous stress. Consider the environment and the material's response to temperatures. Using materials suited to these conditions will help ensure the longevity and reliability of your components, effectively extending their creep life.

Creep monitoring via the use of Non Destructive methods mentioned above, are quite limited and will likely only detect late stage creep damage (after micro-voids have aligned and formed cracks). Early signs of creep can only be detected via laboratory testing of a specimen, via destructive testing.

Ductility exhaustion is a condition based lifing method that determines the strain accumulation due to fatigue and creep for each load cycle of components. This method combines the fatigue and creep strain rates to determine the remaining useful life. Solar Turbines uses this method based on extensive stress-strain analysis, material testing, and gas turbine usage field data. The remaining useful life of components is determined by summing the life consumed for each load cycle, including ramp and dwell periods, subtracted from a previously determined service life. This patented method is described in patent US20150105966A1.

Anothe is; "knowlege will stay as knowlege when you don't do practice yourself". The important thing is practically action. It is good to have much knowledge, but without practicing, doing by oneself, it will be nothing. During practicing one will find many things, another factors instead of assumption stated in the theory.