Development of High-Strength-Fabricable Tantalum-Base Alloys

Abstract

AbstractIn the 1950s, Ta-7.5%W and the Ta-2.5%W were the only tantalum alloys of commercial significance. An intensive alloy development effort occurred between 1958 and 1968 in response to Air Force and Navy aerospace needs for high-temperature, oxidation-resistant alloys for rocket and air-breathing engines and airframe applications. Compatibility with oxidation-resistant coatings, high-temperature short-time strength, fabricability and weldability were of prime importance. These programs led to the development of Ta-10w%W, Ta-30w%Nb-7.5w%V, T-111(Ta-8w%W-2w%Hf), and T-222(Ta-10w%W-2.5w%Hf-O.Olw%C). T-111, with its demonstrated compatibility with liquid alkali metals, and combination of strength, fabricability and weldability, was selected by NASA as the baseline reference alloy for space nuclear power systems studies. Significant quantities of T- 111 and T-222 were produced in the 1960s. Today, however, production is limited to unalloyed tantalum and the tantalum-tungsten binaries because of the demand of the chemical industry for materials with outstanding acid corrosion resistance. To again produce T-11 and T-222 on a commercial basis will require relearning by the refractory metal alloy producers. The current lack of experience in the refractory metal industry with these high temperature alloys will necessitate recovery of the expertise needed for the United States to effectively compete in this technology arena.