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Updated: Jan 25, 2026
11:17
Spark Plasma Sintering Apparatus Used for the Formation of Strontium Titanate Bicrystals
Published on: February 9, 2017
10.2K
Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of an Advanced γ-TiAl Based Alloy Processed by Spark Plasma
David Wimler1, Janny Lindemann2, Helmut Clemens3
1Department of Materials Science, Montanuniversität Leoben, 8700 Leoben, Austria. david.wimler@unileoben.ac.at.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 12, 2019
Summary
Spark plasma sintering of TNM alloy powder creates a microstructure with potential for high-temperature applications. Subsequent heat treatments enhance strength and creep resistance while maintaining ductility.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Metallurgy
- Powder Metallurgy
Background:
- Intermetallic gamma-TiAl alloys are advanced lightweight, high-temperature materials.
- Established production methods include casting and hot-working.
- Powder metallurgy offers a route for near net-shape component manufacturing.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the densification of 4th generation TNM alloy (Ti-43.5Al-4Nb-1Mo-0.1B) powder via spark plasma sintering.
- Analyze the resulting microstructure and phase distribution.
- Evaluate the impact of heat treatments on microstructure, strength, and creep resistance.
Main Methods:
- Gas atomization of TNM alloy powder.
- Densification using spark plasma sintering.
- Microstructural analysis via electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction.
- Tensile and creep testing at various temperatures.
- Post-sintering heat treatments to modify lamellar spacing.
Main Results:
- Sintered microstructure consists of lamellar α2-Ti3Al/γ-TiAl colonies and globular γ- and ordered βo-TiAl phases.
- Low cooling rates resulted in coarse lamellar spacing.
- Heat treatments reduced lamellar widths significantly.
- Modified microstructure showed improved strength and creep resistance.
- A small fraction of globular γ-phase contributed to ambient temperature ductility.
Conclusions:
- Spark plasma sintering is a viable method for producing TiAl alloys.
- Heat treatment optimization is crucial for tailoring mechanical properties.
- The modified TNM alloy exhibits a promising balance of high-temperature performance and ductility.
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