Creep fracture characteristics of weld-repaired cast Ti-6Al-4V

Abstract

Constant load creep tests were conducted with cast Ti-6Al-4 V bars in air and vacuum at 315† and 650†C. Some of the bars were notched in their gauge section and heliarc-welded to simulate a weld repair in a casting. Results indicate that the welding has little influence on the time to rupture of the bars. Fractographic analysis of the bars indicates minor differences in the welded and unwelded fracture surfaces. However, these differences do not affect the microstructural influence on the creep and fracture processes. The prior beta grain, size and the alpha platelet size are shown to control the creep fracture of this alloy. These data show that weld repair of titanium castings for creep applications should be acceptable.