Formation of a submicrocrystalline structure in a two-phase titanium alloy without severe plastic deformation

Abstract

The formation of submicrocrystalline (SMC) Ti-6Al-4V was achieved by imposing a much lower strain (epsilon = 1.4) compared to that typically imposed during severe plastic deformation operations (i.e. 4 <= epsilon <= 8). Electron backscatter diffraction analysis revealed that the novel process was effective in promoting dynamic recrystallization and limiting alpha grain growth. The SMC sheet had much higher yield strength than usual (1134 MPa) and reasonable elongation (similar to 12%) at room temperature, and exhibited enhanced ductility at elevated temperatures. (C) 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.