Deformation Behavior and Microstructural Evolution during Hot Stamping of TA15 Sheets: Experimentation and Modelling

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering

Background:

• Near-alpha titanium alloys are vital for high-temperature aircraft structural components.
• Manufacturing complex-shaped titanium alloy parts requires precise control over microstructure and properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the hot deformation characteristics and microstructural evolution of TA15 titanium alloy.
• To establish an innovative, low-cost hot stamping process for titanium alloys.
• To develop a predictive material model for Finite Element (FE) simulations.

Main Methods:

• Hot tensile tests were conducted to analyze deformation behavior.
• Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) observations were used to study microstructural changes.
• A unified mechanisms-based material model was established incorporating recrystallization and damage.

Main Results:

• The optimal hot stamping temperature range for TA15 was determined to be 750 °C to 900 °C.
• Key microstructural evolutions during hot deformation were identified.
• A material model capable of predicting stress-strain behavior was successfully developed.

Conclusions:

• The developed hot stamping process and material model offer a pathway for cost-effective manufacturing of complex titanium alloy parts.
• The findings support the design of optimized processing windows for aerospace structural components.
• This research contributes to advancing the application of titanium alloys in demanding aerospace environments.