Investigation of enhanced superplastic forming behaviour of Ti-6Al-4V alloy sheets for aerospace applications

Titanium alloys are used to manufacture aerospace components that require high strength at high operating temperatures such fan blades, heat shields and jet engine exhaust cones. Parts that have complex geometries are commonly formed at high temperature (around 900°C) so as to achieve maximum ductility during the forming process. By applying a small oscillating load during the forming process, the titanium alloy is expected to deform more uniformly and to a greater extent than during conventional superplastic forming. The objective of this investigation is to determine the ranges of amplitude and frequency of the oscillating load that will optimize the formability of the titanium sheet. The results of this research will ultimately be applied to industrial processes in order to improve process robustness and part quality while reducing cycle time and manufacturing costs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Daniel Green

Student:

Zackary Fuerth

Partner:

AEM Power Systems Inc

Discipline:

Engineering - mechanical

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Windsor