The Effect of 45° Rolling Process on the Mechanical Properties of P/M Rhenium

Abstract

A novel processing technique which utilizes the 45° rolling mode is introduced. An optimum processing method of light rolling (10-12% reduction in thickness) along the 45° direction, followed by intermittent annealing (1650°C / 30 min. in H2 atmosphere) was carried out. The partial reduction and intermittent annealing were repeated until an 82.9% reduction was achieved with a tensile strength of 2388 MPa (346.6 Ksi) and 3.3% elongation. Additional experiments were performed to test the feasibility of increasing the percentage of reduction in thickness in cold rolling from the conventional 10-15% to 20-55% along the 45° direction. Although extensive microcracking occurred, intermediate strengths were achieved and ductility was retained. This processing technique has the potential of producing ultra high strength, very thin sheets, which are vital for space nuclear power applications and missile guidance systems.