Deformation modes of the α-phase of ti-6al-4v as a function of oxygen concentration and aging temperature

The tensile properties of lamellar Ti-6A1-4V and the deformation modes of the α-phase of this alloy were investigated as a function of oxygen concentration and as a function of aging heat treatment. Oxygen affects the mechanical properties through microstructural modifications which depend on the choice of aging parameters. The variations in Young's modulus, yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and ductility, are correlated with α/β volume ratio and with α-deformation characteristics. Homogeneityvs inhomogeneity of slip, change of the predominant slip modes from prismatic slip to fine planar slip on pyramidal planes, and the occurrence of Ti3Al precipitates influence the deformation behavior of the α-phase and thus influence the mechanical properties of the alloy. The deformation behaviors of the lesser β-phase regions were not investigated, and only speculations can be made on the extent of their influence on the alloy's mechanical properties.