Materials Science Forum Vol. 735

Abstract: The paper describes the results of long-term investigations on the development of the technology of superplastic forming and pressure welding (SPF/PW) conducted at the Institute for Metals Superplasticity Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences for producing standard articles of aero-space engineering, such as hollow blades, wing and shell panels. The process of solid state joint formation in titanium alloy sheets during SPF was studied. Different investigation techniques were developed. The results of the mechanical and fatigue testing as well as non-destructive inspection of hollow blades are presented. The prospects of the development of the SPF/PW technology are considered and the latest results are discussed.

Abstract: This paper describes the research work that was performed in order to propose an innovative and low cost process route for superplastic forming of aluminum and titanium alloy sheets. The driving idea was to heat only the metallic sheet using heating elements included in the pressure chamber. Several heating configuration have been tested and equipment designs investigated. Based on experimental results and numerical thermal analysis, it was found that halogen heating lamps with a high reflective thermal insulation was the best for the upper pressure chamber, whereas low effusivity Refractory Castables materials seem optimal as low cost forming die. Energy consumption evaluation shows more than 80% energy saving in nominal titanium alloy forming. A pilot forming equipment was developed and first aluminum sheet forming trials give interesting results.

Abstract: Modification of AISI D2 tool steel was conducted by friction stir processing (FSP). Effects of tool rotational speed on microstructural evolution and mechanical properties were investigated. Though coarse primary carbides in the size of 10-50 m were observed before FSP, fine carbides smaller than 20 m and martensitic matrix with fine grains were obtained after FSP. High hardness of over 900 HV, higher than the hardness in conventional D2 tool steel, was achieved under the condition of moderate rotational speed.