Improved mechanical properties of Ti–15V–3Cr–3Sn–3Al alloy by electron beam welding process plus heat treatments and its microstructure evolution

Electron beam welding (EBW) and related heat treatments were carried out on Ti–15V–3Cr–3Sn–3Al (Ti-15-3) alloy plate materials. It was found that the operated parameters in the present EBW process together with suitable heat treatments significantly enhanced the mechanical properties as well as the elongations of the Ti-15-3 weldment, which may provide a promising way for further industrial application. Furthermore, the observed nano size phase of β, α, and here first reported TiCr2 particle, may form from the solid solution matrix of the Ti-15-3 alloy. The possible mechanisms for these phase formation are discussed.

Research highlights▶ Electron beam welding and heat treatments were carried out on Ti-15-3 plate material. ▶ EBW plus suitable heat treatment enhance the mechanical property of weldment. ▶ Nano α, β and TiCr2 phase form at the amorphous solid solution in the fusion zone. ▶ The possible precipitation mechanisms are discussed.