Defect formation during welding and their effect on mechanical properties of Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo

Research Project, 2013 – 2017

Welded structures and components are prerequisites for cost effective manufacturing of aero engine parts. A main objective of this project is to explain why pores/defects are formed for certain welding parameters in laser welding; being the chosen welding method because of its importance. Since all types of pores/defects do not affect the mechanical properties it is also important to distinguish between pores/defects that are ”detrimental to properties” and those that are not. This will be investigated through mechanical testing of welds containing different types of pores/defects. The effect of weld geometry with regard to mechanical properties will also be investigated. The project will focus on the titanium alloys Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo. The outcome from this work will create better possibilities for enhanced design of welded structures and also improve the possibilities for optimum selection of material combinations in terms of forging/casting/sheet for the investigated alloys. Hence, improved light weight design of components and systems and cost savings in production can be expected