What is creep in metals?

Creep in metals is the gradual deformation that occurs when a material is subjected to constant stress over an extended period, especially at elevated temperatures. This phenomenon is particularly critical in high-temperature applications, such as in turbines or reactors, where materials are under sustained load. Creep is characterized by three stages: primary (decelerating), secondary (steady-state), and tertiary (accelerating) creep. Understanding creep is essential for predicting material lifespan and ensuring structural integrity in engineering applications.