Kadephi Mjali

By Kadephi Vuyolwethu Mjali and Annelize Botes

The microstructure and mechanical properties of laser and mechanically formed commercially pure grade 2 titanium plates are discussed in this chapter. The microstructure of the as received parent material is compared to that resulting from laser and mechanical forming processes. Residual stress results from the two forming processes are analysed and bring to light changes brought about by these processes to the titanium used. The effect of the two forming processes on the mechanical properties is discussed, and the effect of process parameters on these properties is also argued in detail.

Part of the book: Titanium Alloys

By Tankiso Lawrence Ngake and Kadephi Vuyolwethu Mjali

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of laser power on the microstructure, hardness, and residual stresses of laser-cladded titanium alloy. Laser powers of 600, 800, and 1000 W were varied while keeping other processing parameters constant. Microhardness and microstructure measurements were conducted using a Vickers microhardness tester and an optical microscope, respectively. Residual stresses were determined using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The results obtained revealed a non-linear relationship between microhardness and increasing laser power. Microstructural analysis indicated a transformation from all α grains to α′ martensite in the cladded zone, observed across all laser powers. Residual stress measurements showed a consistent tensile trend, decreasing with increasing laser power. The issue of increasing tensile residual stress can be mitigated by adjusting the laser power with minimal impact on the microstructure. These findings highlight the significant influence of processing parameters on surface properties, suggesting the potential for optimizing laser cladding parameters to enhance material corrosion and abrasion resistance properties.

Part of the book: Titanium-Based Alloys