Microstructure and mechanical properties of biocompatible high density Ti-6Al-4V/W produced by high frequency induction heating sintering

High frequency induction heating sintering method is used for sintering of the metal and ceramics powder. This technique has been used to produce high density compacts, containing as small grains as possible of powders. The alloy of Ti-6Al-4V was modified by addition of 2.5, 5, and 10 wt.% tungsten through powder metallurgy. Ti-6Al-4V/W was prepared by high-energy mechanical milling. The use of the high frequency induction heating sintering technique allows sintering to nearly full density at comparatively low temperatures and short holding times, and therefore suppressing grain growth. Different process parameters such as sintering temperature, and applied pressure have been investigated. The obtained compacts are characterized with respect to their densities, grain morphologies and pore distributions as well as hardness. Ti-6Al-4V/W powder precursors have been successfully compacted and consolidated to densities exceeding 98.8%. The maximum compressive strengths were obtained at sintering temperature 1000 degrees C for the samples containing 5% W, and at 1100 degrees C for the samples with 10% W. Maximum hardness was obtained 45 HRC at 1100 degrees C for 10% W. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.