Effect of Nb addition on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of Ti-5553 beta metastable alloy

Abstract

In well different industrial segments such as aerospace and medical, the use titanium and its alloys in the manufacturing of devices has increased consistently in recent years. The use of such metal in a so varied manner, either in jet engines or orthopedic implants, is due to its unique characteristics, specifically high mechanical strength, low density, high corrosion resistance and good biocompatibility. Recent studies associated with the structural use of titanium in the aerospace and medical/dental sectors have focused on the development of beta metastable titanium alloys. This study aims to discuss the preparation, processing and characterization of the beta metastable alloy Ti-5553 (Ti-5Al-5V-5Mo-3Cr-0.5Fe) and two alloys with compositions modified by the addition of niobium to replace vanadium. Such alloys will be prepared by arc melting, deformed plastically by hot forging and submitted to different aging heat treatments. Characterization will be carried out by applying optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, measurements of elastic modulus and Vickers hardness. It is expected that the replacement of V by Nb will not modify the main characteristics of the Ti-5553 alloy, in particular, their high mechanical strength and low kinetic of phase transformations. (AU)