DEVELOPMENT OF A CO-EXTRUDED Al-Ti BIMETAL COMPOSITE

Abstract

This study enhances the strength of the Al6061 alloy by adding Ti in the form of a rod using a thermomechanical process, which would be useful in making structures for aerospace and structural members. Two different properties of the material are joined together to form a new bimetallic material. Softer Al-6061 is used as a sleeve, and grade-II Ti is used as a core. They were prepared with a co-extrusion process at a temperature of 400 °C with different ratios of 2:1 and 2:0.5. The prepared substrates are analysed for characterization, hardness, tensile strength, and corrosion. The development of the diffusion layer is observed at the boundary of the Al-Ti material, and the bonding is improved. Compared to an aluminium alloy and a 2:1 bimetal composite, the co-extruded Al-Ti with a ratio of 2:0.5 bimetal composite ratio shows a better microstructure, mechanical, and tribological properties. It is concluded that the co-extrusion of Ti and Al is an efficient way to devise new composites with mechanical properties of 14% and 19%, respectively.