Influence of processing parameters on mechanical properties of Ti–6Al–4V alloy fabricated by MIM

This study presents the results of systematic variation of essential processing parameters with regard to thermal debinding and sintering of components fabricated by MIM using Ti–6Al–4V powder. The investigation aims at the understanding of the particular influence these parameters have on the mechanical properties of the sintered parts. This study shows that the debinding parameters appear to be rather uncritical, whereas sintering and cooling rates as well as maximum temperature are important in terms of their effect on tensile strength. Contrary to the strength, the ductility remains nearly unaffected. Based on these results, samples displaying yield strength of 757 MPa, UTS of 861 MPa and a plastic elongation of more than 14% were produced. These values meet the requirements of the ASTM B348-02 for titanium alloy grade 23.