Application of the Fluorine Effect to TiAl-Components

Abstract

AbstractThe oxidation resistance of TiAl-alloys can be improved by several orders of magnitude by fluorine doping of the surface zone of the material. The oxidation mechanism changes from the formation of a thick mixed oxide scale to a protective alumina layer. This fluorine treatment influences only the surface region of the components so that the bulk properties are not affected. Recent results achieved with TiAl-components showed the potential of a fluorine treatment for the use of TiAl in several high temperature applications. Turbine blades for aero engines made of TiAl were treated with fluorine by different methods and their performance during high temperature oxidation tests in air is shown. Further on by selective local fluorination a structured oxide scale develops on TiAl above 800°C. A simple high temperature activation cause the formation of areas covered by a thin alumina layer alternating with a thick mixed oxide scale where no fluorine was applied before oxidation. The aim is to reproduce a shark-skin pattern (tiny parallel ridges) on the surface in order to minimize the aero dynamic resistance of turbine blades rotating in a gas flow. Different methods used for this attempt and the corresponding results are also presented.