Microstructure and Properties of 3.5Â vol.% TiBw/Ti6Al4V Composite Tubes Fabricated by Hot-hydrostatic Extrusion

Tubes of 3.5 vol.% TiB whiskers reinforced Ti6Al4V matrix composites (TiBw/Ti6Al4V) were successfully fabricated by a two-step hot-hydrostatic extrusion process: β extrusion at 1100 °C and subsequent near-β extrusion at 950 °C. The dimensions of tubes were about 7 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness. A refined basket-weave structure in Ti6Al4V matrix was achieved at ambient temperature after the extrusion process. Besides, the original network structure formed by TiB whiskers synthesized was broken, while the TiB whiskers were preferentially aligned in the extruding direction. Meanwhile, a fibrous texture was evolved finally, resulting from partial dynamic recrystallization during the β extrusion and the involvement of α phase during the near-β extrusion. The tensile and compressive tests results showed that both the strength and ductility of the tubes were significantly improved. In particular, the tubes exhibited good mechanical properties at elevated temperatures.