Mechanical properties and microstructures of low cost β titanium alloys for healthcare applications

The specific strength and fatigue ratio of TFC and TFCA alloys are much greater than those of the existing wheelchair materials. Unrecrystallized grains obtained in the alloys at low solution treatment temperature can be eliminated by increasing solution treatment temperature or by conducting thermomechanical treatment. The latter method is recommended because it also gives a better strength and ductility balance as a result, mainly, of grain refinement. However, TFCA alloy seems to have more potential to be used as wheelchair materials compared to TFC alloy because of its better workability and post thermomechanical treatment ductility.