Abstract
Tungsten heavy alloys are two phase composites that are useful for several applications requiring high densities, such as radiation shields, counterbalance weights, and projectiles. This paper focuses on the density, strength and ductility variations at high tungsten concentrations (90 to 99.5 wt.% W). Fundamental relations are developed between properties, processing and micro-structure versus the tungsten content. At high tungsten levels, the strength and ductility are limited by the sintered microstructure. Furthermore, the high tungsten content heavy alloys are susceptible to impurity segregation to the tungsten-matrix interface. As a consequence, the mechanical behavior of high tungsten content alloys are sensitive to processing conditions.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
T. K. Kang, E. T. Henig, W. A. Kaysser and G. Petzow, Modern Developments in Powder Metallurgy, vol. 14, H. H. Hausner, H. W. Antes and G. D. Smith (eds.), Metal Powder Industries Federation, Princeton, NJ, 1981, pp. 189–203.
T. K. Kang and D. N. Yoon, Metall. Trans. A, 1978, vol. 9A, pp. 433–438.
R. M. German and J. E. Hanafee, Processing of Metal and Ceramic Powders, R. M. German and K. W. Lay (eds.), The Metallurgical Society, Warrendale, PA, 1982, pp. 267–282.
B. C. Muddle and D. V. Edmonds, Phil. Trans. Royal Soc. London, 1980, vol. A294, p. 129.
M. R. Eisenmann and R. M. German, Prog. Powder Met, 1982, vol. 38, pp. 203–213.
B. Lux, W. J. Huppmann, G. Jangg, H. Danninger and W. Pisan, The Influence of Impurities in Tungsten and Matrix Composition on the Tungsten-Matrix Interfacial Properties of Heavy Metals, final report DAJA-80-C-0008, Institut fur Chemische Technologie Anorganischer Stoffe, Technical Universitat Wein, Vienna, Austria, October 1982.
B. C. Muddle and D. V. Edmonds, Metal Sci., 1983, vol. 17, pp. 209–218.
R. M. German, J. E. Hanafee and S. L. Digiallonardo, Metall. Trans. A, 1984, vol. 15A, pp. 121–128.
K. S. Churn and R. M. German, Metall. Trans. A, 1984, vol. 15A, pp. 331–338.
R. M. German and K. S. Churn, Metall. Trans. A, 1984, vol. 15A, pp. 747–754.
C. J. Li and R. M. German, Inter. J. Powder Met. Powder Tech., 1984, vol. 20, pp. 149–162.
B. C. Muddle, Metall. Trans. A, 1984, vol. 15A, pp. 1089–1098.
M. R. Eisenmann and R. M. German, Inter. J. Refract. Hard Met., 1984, vol. 3, pp. 86–91.
J. L. Chermant and F. Osterstock, J. Mater. Sci., 1976, vol. 11, pp. 1939–1951.
I. A. Aksay, C. E. Hoge and J. A. Pask, J. Phys. Chem., 1974, vol. 78, pp. 1178–1183.
M. P. Seah, Acta Met, 1980, vol. 28, pp. 955–962.
Additional information
Randall M. German received his Ph.D. in materials science from the University of California-Davis in 1975. He is currently a Professor at Rensselaer Polytech Institute in the Materials Engineering Department. Dr. German is also a member of TMS.
Laura L Bourguignon received her B.S. in materials engineering from RPI in 1983. She is currently a Research Assistant pursuing a M.S. in materials engineering at RPI.
Barry H. Rabin received his M.S. in materials engineering from RPI in 1984. He is currently a Research Assistant pursuing a Ph.D. in materials engineering at RPI. Mr. Rabin is also a member of TMS.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
German, R.M., Bourguignon, L.L. & Rabin, B.H. Microstructure Limitations of High Tungsten Content Heavy Alloys. JOM 37, 36–39 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03257677
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03257677