Electron Backscatter Diffraction Technique Research Articles

Flow behavior and dynamic recrystallization mechanism of a new near-alpha titanium alloy Ti-0.3Mo-0.8Ni-2Al-1.5Zr

A new near-α titanium alloy Ti-0.3Mo-0.8Ni-2Al-1.5Zr was designed based on Ti-0.3Mo-0.8Ni (TA10). The hot compression tests were carried out at temperatures of 800–970 °C and strain rates of 0.01–5 s−1. The results show that the flow softening phenomenon in the α + β phase region is more distinct than that in the single β phase region. The Arrhenius constitutive models based on strain compensation in the α+β phase region and β phase region were established respectively, and the correlation coefficient between the predicted flow peak stress values and the experimental values reached 0.99365. The hot processing map of the alloy was established, the processing parameters of the peak efficiency: 800 ≤ T ≤ 818 °C, 0.01 ≤ ε˙ ≤ 0.0235 s−1, and 960 ≤ T ≤ 970 °C, 0.01 ≤ ε˙ ≤ 0.0213 s−1. The microstructure evolution and deformation mechanism of the compressed specimens were researched by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique. There were two nucleation mechanisms for dynamic recrystallization (DRX): sub-grains growth nucleation and high angle grain boundaries (HAGBs) bulging nucleation, the former was continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX), and the latter was discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX). The flow stress in the α+β phase region was softened by CDRX and dynamic recovery (DRV), while the principal deformation mechanisms in the β phase region are DRV and DDRX. The dislocation strain energy and recrystallization ability at different temperatures were quantitatively analyzed by the kernel average misorientation (KAM) and the geometrically necessary dislocation (GND), and the results showed that more complete recrystallization occurred at lower temperature in the α + β phase region. The HCP slip was principally completed by prismatic ⟨a⟩ and pyramidal ⟨c+a⟩ slip systems during the hot compression, while BCC was a mixed mode of {110}, {112} and {113} multiple slips.

In-situ observation of restoration of tungsten plate via high-temperature confocal laser scanning microscopy

The restoration of an yttria dispersion strengthened tungsten plate and the corresponding microstructural evolution are investigated through in situ annealing using high-temperature confocal laser scanning microscopy. The geometrically necessary dislocation density and subgrain/grain evolution at each annealing stage are confirmed using the electron backscatter diffraction technique. The microstructure's evolution is divided into distinct stages of recovery, recrystallization, and grain growth based on their characteristic features. During the recovery process, the fomation of subgrains occurs. The primary mechanism of recrystallization nucleation is dominated by the strain-induced boundary migration mechanism, and the subgrains preexisting at grain boundaries are the main nucleation sites.

Thermal properties and calcium-magnesium-alumino-silicate (CMAS) interaction of novel γ-phase ytterbium-doped yttrium disilicate (γ-Y1.5Yb0.5Si2O7) environmental barrier coating material

Rare-earth disilicates are promising candidates for thermal and environmental barrier coatings (TEBC) in gas turbines that safeguard SiCf/SiC ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) from thermal degradation and environmental attacks. Here, we report a systematic investigation on novel TEBC material, γ-Y1.5Yb0.5Si2O7. The γ-phase quarter molar ytterbium–doped yttrium disilicate exhibited low thermal conductivity (1.72 W·m−1·K−1 at 1200 °C) and reduced intrinsic thermal expansion (3.17 ± 0.22 × 10−6 K−1 up to 1000 °C), ensuring promisingly effective thermal insulation and minimized thermal stress with CMC substrates. Using density functional theory (DFT), the heat capacity of γ-Y1.5Yb0.5Si2O7 was predicted higher than that of undoped γ-Y2Si2O7. Comparing these predictions to results calculated using the Neumann–Kopp (NK) rule revealed only minor variations. A metastable CMAS interaction byproduct, cyclosilicate phase Ca3RE2(Si3O9)2, was identified based on energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) techniques, appearing at 1300 °C but disappearing at 1400 °C. The γ-Y1.5Yb0.5Si2O7 exhibited good CMAS resistance on both dense pellets and sprayed coatings, forming a protective apatite (Ca2RE8(SiO4)6O2) interlayer that effectively hindered CMAS infiltration at evaluated temperatures. The relatively higher Y:Yb atomic ratio (> 3) in the apatite grains indicate differential reactivity with molten CMAS and provides crucial insights into the CMAS corrosion mechanism. These findings highlight the potential of γ-Y1.5Yb0.5Si2O7 as a CMC coating material, emphasizing the need for tailored microstructural optimization as a thermal sprayed coating to enhance long-term performance in extreme gas turbine environments.

Microstructural evolution of a printed AISI 303 upcycled powder on a dissimilar substrate

Additive manufacturing for new constructions or repairing purposes may deal with the use of dissimilar materials. Hence, the influence of interface between the substrate layer and printed one is crucial. This study delves into the impact of printed layers on the microstructure and hardness of an upcycled AISI 303 alloy produced by Direct Energy Deposition. Chemical composition distribution, phase and grain size evolutions were studied, accompanied with microhardness measurements.Microscopic analysis through chemical composition mapping and using electron backscatter diffraction technique for crystallography analysis revealed that the interface structure is strongly affected by the distribution of chemical composition and the heat received from subsequent printing. That means, a dominant transformation of austenite to martensite/ferrite occurs at the first layer printed on the top of the substrate. This is confirmed by hardness measurements (442 ± 15 HV0.1). This dominance (global martensite/ferrite distribution of 42%) is attributed to the reduction of Cr, Ni and Mn contents in the first layer, caused by Marangoni convection currents. This study confirms that subsequent printing favors the evolution of martensite/ferrite to austenite (global distribution of 75%) and grain growth, leading to hardness decrease to around 295 ± 34 HV0.1, leaving small difference with the printed AISI 303 alloy with a hardness of 235 ± 18 HV0.1.

Dynamic Recrystallization Constitutive Model and Texture Evolution of Metastable β Titanium Alloy TB8 during Thermal Deformation.

The mechanical properties of metastable β-titanium alloys are highly susceptible during the thermal mechanical processing (TMP). In this process, the recrystallization process plays an important role in determining the microstructure and texture evolution. The implementation of dynamic recrystallization (DRX), a process for achieving β-grain refinement, is considered of great significance for the improvement of the properties of metastable β-titanium alloys and their industrial production. Along these lines, in this work, an isothermal compression test of TB8 titanium alloy was carried out by using a Gleeble-3500 thermal simulator. As a result, the rheological stress behavior was analyzed, the thermal processing map was accurately established based on the stress-strain curve, and the optimal processing interval was determined. The DRX kinetic and the DRX grain size models were developed, on the basis of which a new DRX intrinsic model was established to improve the material parameters. Therefore, the actual situation in the working process could be better predicted. The microstructural evolution of TB8 titanium alloy during thermal deformation was comprehensively investigated using the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique. The obtained results demonstrate a close correlation between the diversity of DRX mechanisms in TB8 alloy and the distribution of dislocation density. Four microstructural textures during thermal deformation were identified, in which the cube texture of (001) <010> and the R-Gorss Nd texture of (110) <110> dominate. Due to the random orientation of the dynamically recrystallized grains, the strength of the R-Gorss Nd texture of (110) <110> increases with the increase in the volume fraction of DRX. On the contrary, it was verified that the dynamic recrystallization behavior has a significant weakening impact on the cube texture of (001) <010>.

Tensile behavior of the designed SiCf/Ti2AlNb/Ti17 composites

SiCf/Ti2AlNb-reinforced Ti17 (SiCf/Ti2AlNb/Ti17) composites were fabricated through hot isostatic pressing. The designed SiCf/Ti2AlNb/Ti17 composites exhibited excellent tensile properties, with tensile strengths of 1657 MPa at room temperature and 1830 MPa at 450 °C. The microstructure, fracture morphology, and longitudinal section of the composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and electron backscatter diffraction techniques. The fracture process of SiCf/Ti2AlNb/Ti17 composites during room-temperature tensile tests was as follows: the SiCf/Ti2AlNb reaction layer first fractured, the crack extended into the Ti2AlNb matrix, the Ti2AlNb matrix crack extended to the adjacent reaction layer and promoted fiber fracture, the crack extended to the Ti2AlNb/Ti17 interface, ultimately the Ti17 capsule fractured. The fracture process of SiCf/Ti2AlNb/Ti17 composites during 450 °C tensile tests was as follows: the SiCf/Ti2AlNb reaction layer first fractured, multiple fiber fractures occurred, and the crack in the reaction layer entered the Ti2AlNb matrix, the crack extended to the Ti2AlNb/Ti17 interface, eventually the Ti17 capsule fractured. The room-temperature tensile fracture was fitted to the LLS model, while the tensile fracture at 450 °C was fitted to the GLS model. The different fracture processes indicated that the SiCf/Ti2AlNb/Ti17 composites were suitable for exploiting fiber strength at 450 °C and therefore exhibited excellent tensile strength.

Effects of Mo content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of laser cladded FeCoCrNiMox (x = 0.2, 0.5) high-entropy alloy coatings

The laser cladding additive manufacturing technology and high-entropy alloys can serve as ideal techniques and materials for the surface repair of high-speed train axles. Coatings of FeCoCrNiMox (x = 0.2, 0.5) were prepared on EA4T axle steel using laser cladding technology, and their phase, structure, and mechanical properties were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and electron channeling contrast imaging (ECCI) characterization techniques. Additionally, the mechanical properties of the coatings were tested, and first-principles calculations were used to verify and calculate the material's mechanical performance. The research findings indicate that an increase in Mo content leads to a greater degree of lattice distortion, causing a leftward shift in diffraction peak positions. Significant differences in the microstructure from the substrate to the coating surface were observed, with columnar grain structure at the bottom of the cladding layer and equiaxed dendrites dominating the coating surface. The increase in Mo content promotes the formation of σ phase while also refining the grain size. ECCI results show that both types of coatings consist of a high-density dislocation cell structure and Mo-rich particles. With an increase in Mo content, the peak hardness of the coating increased from 456.5 HV to 469.4 HV, while the impact energy decreased from 56 J to 16 J, attributed to the increase in dislocation density and the greater quantity of σ phase. First principles calculations verified that the comprehensive mechanical properties of FeCoCrNiMo0.2 are superior, providing theoretical guidance for the optimization and design of the coatings.

Effect of Coiling Temperature on Microstructure and Properties of Ferritic-Bainitic Dual-Phase Steels

In this study, a 780 MPa grade ferritic-bainitic dual-phase steel with excellent matching of strength-plasticity and formability was developed using thermomechanical control processing. Optical microscopy, Scanning electron microscopy, and Electron Backscatter Diffraction techniques were used to characterize the microstructure comprehensively, and the effects of coiling temperature on the microstructure, the strength-plasticity, and hole-expansion ratio of the test steels were thoroughly investigated. The results showed that the test steel had an excellent combination of ferrite and bainite at the coiling temperature of 520 °C, 23.7 and 76.3%, respectively, with a hole expansion ratio of 58.5 ± 2.8%. The uniformity of the microstructure was the key to obtaining a high expansion ratio in ferrite-bainite dual-phase steels. The test steels formed granular bainite at low-temperature coiling, while polygonal ferrite was promoted at high-temperature coiling. The effect of coiling temperature on grain size is small. Dislocations were redistributed during high-temperature coiling, resulting in a decrease in dislocation density. The higher elongation and hole expansion rate at higher coiling temperatures were attributed to increased polygonal ferrite content, reduced grain size, and enhanced TRIP effect. When coiling at low temperatures, the agglomeration of polygonal ferrite or granular bainite tends to result in a non-uniform distribution of the soft and hard phases of the matrix. At the same time, the strong texture parallel to the rolling direction has a significant difference in plasticity in different directions, leading to non-uniform deformation, which is liable to stress concentration, causing crack nucleation and extension in the hole expanding process, thus reducing the hole expansion performance.

How to characterise the anisotropy of laser powder bed fusion-processed parts? Towards a surrogate, non-destructive indentation-based approach

This work proposes a non-destructive indentation (NDI)-based surrogate mechanical testing framework for anisotropy and mechanical property evaluation of LPBF processed Inconel 718 superalloy. A Knoop-hardness tester was employed to develop the surrogate framework. Further post-heat treatments (PHTs) were performed at various cooling rates. The as-printed and PHT (SA, SB, SC, and SD) samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) techniques. The yield locus plots show strong anisotropy for the as-printed sample. The IPF maps and pole figures for the as-printed samples showed elongated columnar grains with strong fiber texture along the (001) plane parallel to the build direction. They corroborated sufficiently with XRD, grain boundary map (GBM), and Kernel average misorientation (KAM) analysis. The yield locus shape of samples subjected to homogenization treatment becomes a nearly uniform ellipse with a reduction in the difference between σx and σy values, which can be attributed to the recrystallization of grains as observed by the transition from low-angle grain boundaries (LAGBs) to high angle grain boundaries (HAGBs). The PHT samples show a further increase in yield loci size due to the precipitation of γ’ and γ” strengthening phases due to aging treatment and corroborated with higher Taylor factor and dislocation density than the as-printed samples. The yield loci were sensitive to the PHT's cooling rates. Notably, among PHT ones, ‘SA’ samples exhibited a strong correlation (R2 ≈ 97.5 %) between the Taylor factor and yield locus. It was attributed to slower cooling rates (furnace cooled) with noticeably enhanced precipitation of strengthening phases, an increase in the volume fraction of recrystallized grains (from grain orientation spread (GOS) map), corroborating with higher dislocation density due to local strain as inferred from EBSD analysis. The proposed NDI surrogate approach was initially validated on an as-printed Inconel 718 stator blade. The yield locus showed a strong correlation between the stator blade and the as-printed sample, indicating the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.

Multi-scale characterization of fatigue crack tip deformation and propagation in QP steel

A novel measurement method for multi-scale characterization of fatigue crack tip deformation and propagation behaviors in high strength and plasticity, multi-phase, fine-grain Quenching and Partitioning (QP) steel was proposed. The fatigue crack propagation (FCP) test system with the macro/micro images acquisition devices was built to measure the FCP rate and crack tip deformation simultaneously. First, at the mesoscale, the evolution characteristics of the crack tip deformation fields, plasticity induced crack closure (PICC) behaviors and plastic zone during the FCP process were analyzed using the sub-image stitching and matching digital image correlation (DIC) method. Then, the FCP models were established with special emphasis on the model considering the PICC effect based on the obtained crack opening load at the mesoscale. Moreover, the corresponding microscale surface crack and fracture morphologies, microstructure phase transformation and deformations were observed and analyzed by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques.

Experimental study and crystal plasticity modeling of additive manufacturing IN718 superalloy considering negative strain rate sensitivity behavior

Revealing underlying mechanisms of IN718 superalloy's negative strain rate sensitivity behavior at elevated temperatures is significantly important for its further applications in extreme conditions. This work investigates the microstructural mechanisms of the temperature-dependent strain rate sensitivity using experimental methods and crystal plasticity characterization model. Firstly, Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques are utilized to observe microstructural characteristics of additively manufactured IN718 alloy at different temperatures. The influence of solute precipitation and dislocation slip interaction on the mechanical properties is discussed. Subsequently, the representative volume element (RVE) model is constructed by using acquired orientation, grain size, and dislocation density data. Finally, the crystal plasticity model incorporating dynamic strain aging and dislocation density evolution is developed to characterize the relationship between strain rate sensitivity and temperature. The model can effectively simulate the transition of strain rate sensitivity of additive manufacturing materials. The results indicate that the increase in dislocation pinning caused by intensified carbon element precipitation at high temperatures is the primary reason of the strain rate sensitivity change observed in IN718 metal materials. The carbon precipitated at the dislocation nucleus induces serration flow in IN718 superalloy under high strain. This study contributes to understanding and characterizing the microscopic mechanisms of deformation in metal materials subjected to thermal environments.

In-situ analysis of SCC initiation on Alloy 600 surface in primary water environment using digital image correlation with electron backscatter diffraction

This study examined the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) phenomenon of Alloy 600 in a high-temperature primary water environment. The investigation involved the observation of local plastic deformation and SCC initiation on the specimen surface using an observation apparatus, comprising a laser confocal microscope (LCM) and an autoclave equipped with a diamond window view-port. Prior to conducting the SCC initiation test, the crystalline structure of the specimen, including grain boundary (GB) characteristics, Schmid factor, and trace inclination angle, underwent examination using an electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique. The local strain distribution was subsequently analyzed using a digital image correlation (DIC) method, employing LCM images obtained during the SCC experiments. The ex-situ EBSD analysis indicated that SCC mainly initiated at random high-angle grain boundaries (HAGB) with trace inclination angles close to 90° relative to the tensile axis. DIC analysis further revealed that most GBs in the vicinity of the highly strained area cracked among random HAGBs with a high trace inclination angle to the tensile axis. This confirms that the local strain gradient at GBs plays an important role in SCC initiation, serving as a more suitable indicator of an additional stress component to effective normal stress acting on GBs compared to the Schmid factor mismatch.

The Performance of Niobium-Microalloying Ultra-High-Strength Bridge Cable Steel during Hot Rolling.

This study focuses on exploring the effects of niobium (Nb)-microalloying on the properties of steel for ultra-high-strength bridge cables during hot-rolling processes. We employed a combination of dual-pass compression tests, stress-strain curve analysis, and Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) techniques to investigate the influence of Nb-microalloying on the static recrystallization behavior and grain size of the steel. The key findings reveal that Nb-microalloying effectively inhibits static recrystallization, particularly at higher temperatures, significantly reducing the volume fraction of recrystallized grains, resulting in a finer grain size and enhanced deformation resistance. Secondly, at a deformation temperature of 975 °C, Nb-containing steel exhibited finer grain sizes compared to Nb-free steel when held for 10 to 50 s; however, the grain size growth accelerated when the hold time exceeded 50 s, likely linked to the increased deformation resistance induced by Nb. Lastly, this research proposes optimal hot-rolling process parameters for new bridge cable steel, recommending specific finishing rolling temperatures and inter-pass times for both Nb-containing and Nb-free steels during the roughing and finishing stages. This study suggests optimal hot-rolling parameters for both Nb-containing and Nb-free steels, providing essential insights for improving hot-rolling and microalloying processes in high-carbon steels for bridge cables.

Influence of overlapping friction stir processing on microstructural evolution, texture development, and mechanical performance in Al6061

In the current examination, a large-area stirred zone has been created in Al6061 through the application of overlapping friction stir processing. The investigation focused on examining the microstructural and texture changes in friction stir processed Al6061, using the electron backscattered diffraction technique. Electron backscattered diffraction images provided valuable insights into the recrystallization process, revealing the presence of fine-grained structure with high-angle boundaries in the large-area stirred zone attributed to intense plastic straining and dynamic recrystallization. The use of the tool caused significant plastic straining, resulting in the development of the A- (1 1 1) {1 1 0} texture component. Mechanical testing demonstrated a noteworthy increase in ductility after processing. However, the microhardness and strength were observed to be inferior to the base material due to elevated thermal cycling.

Fabrication of wear resistant nanocomposite and its mechanical properties: A step towards sustainability

AbstractNowadays, particulate reinforced aluminium composites are appealing structural materials for numerous applications, such as automotive and aerospace, due to their low weight and high specific strength. Nanocomposite morphology and interfacial properties may alter when nano sized particles are reinforced with an aluminium matrix. The addition of nano reinforcement of aluminium oxide particle improve the mechanical strength of base alloy and a further improvement in mechanical properties may be enhanced by grain refinement processed under multi axial forging technique. The present study demonstrates the synthesis of wear resistant nanocomposite. It also investigates the effect of multi axial forging on microstructure, mechanical properties and wear behaviour of aluminium based nanocomposite. Optical microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction techniques were used for microstructural characterization. The fractography and worn surface analysis were examined by using scanning electron microscopy. Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy is used to show the presence of nanoparticles in casting. After three multi axial forging passes, the average grain size was reduced up to 4.2 μm as cast and 1.15 μm in nanocomposite. The wear resistance, microhardness and tensile strength of multi axial forging processed nanocomposite were significantly improved. All improved mechanical and wear properties cause the material one step towards sustainability.

Effect of Ni element on microstructure and properties of cold-rolled 316 L austenitic stainless steel

In this current investigation, the impact of Nickel (Ni) on the microstructural attributes and properties of a cold-rolled 316 L sheet was examined. The microstructure and phase configuration of austenitic stainless steels, specifically 316 L and 316LNi, were meticulously characterized through the utilization of metallography, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) techniques. Subsequent assessments were conducted to evaluate magnetic characteristics, microhardness, and tensile properties. The phase structure of both austenitic stainless steels conforms to a Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) crystal lattice, whereby the grain content oriented along the (110) plane progressively escalates with augmenting degrees of cold rolling. The magnetic conductivity of these austenitic stainless steels satisfactorily adheres to established standards. The incorporation of Nickel (Ni) into the alloy composition enhances the cold deformation capacity of 316 L stainless steel. However, substantial plastic deformation yields heightened dislocation density, thereby promoting enlarged grain dimensions upon solution treatment. Throughout subsequent cold rolling deformation sequences, the augmented grain size observed in 316LNi stainless steel leads to a reduction in dislocation density within the equivalently ordered cold-rolled plate. Simultaneously, this augmented grain size engenders a decline in grain boundary content coupled with an augmentation in twin content. Consequently, the interplay of grain coarsening, diminished dislocation density, and twin-induced softening collectively bestows upon 316LNi stainless steel a lower tensile strength compared to 316 L stainless steel, albeit accompanied by heightened plasticity.

Revealing the mechanism of ductility discrepancy between two 2205 duplex stainless steels containing layered and island austenite through in-situ experiment

A notable discrepancy in tensile ductility was observed between two 2205 duplex stainless steels (DSS) containing layered and island-like austenite microstructures. The deformation behavior of both DSS 2205 was compared through in-situ Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) techniques. The results indicated that the microscopic deformation mechanism for both DSS 2205 was governed by dislocation slip. The observed tensile ductility disparity was attributed to differences in dislocation slip behavior. In DSS 2205 with island austenite, slip transfer and blocking across grain boundaries occurred simultaneously, which was determined by the geometrical compatibility factor (m') calculations of adjacent ferrite and austenite grains. This intensified plastic inhomogeneities and promoted non-Schmid dislocation slip behavior. While in layered austenite of DSS 2205, the activation of slip system strictly adhered to the principle of maximizing the Schmid factor. Multiple slip systems in the ferrite on {110} and {112} planes were activated, inducing cross-slip, which enhanced ductility. The better ductility of DSS 2205 featuring layered austenite compared to the counterpart was further explained by quantitative analysis of geometrically necessary dislocations (GND) distribution in both phases and kernel average misorientation (KAM) values during deformation.

A combined EBSD and machine learning study of predicting deformation twinning in BCC Fe81Ga19 alloy

Compared to face-centered cubic (FCC) metals, body-centered cubic (BCC) metals demonstrate more intricate deformation behavior and microstructural characteristics because of the influence of intrinsic unstable stacking faults and defect structure. To investigate the unique phenomenon of deformation twinning in Fe81Ga19 alloy with BCC structure at moderate temperature and low strain rate, four twin nucleation models were constructed using a combination of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique and machine learning. These models are aimed to predict twin nucleation of grains and explore the relationship between twin nucleation and microstructural attributes. The study revealed that amongst the 235 grains analyzed during in-situ compressive deformation, 32 grains experienced twinning. Nine attributes influencing twin nucleation were selected and ranked according to their importance. Grain area, average image quality, neighboring grain count, and the Schmid factor of twinning systems exhibited significant influence on twin nucleation. Decision tree and tree ensemble (XGBoost) achieved 94% and 96% accuracy, respectively, on the test set, showcasing robust generalization capability. Due to the optimization of hyperparameters, support vector machine (SVM) and artificial neural network (ANN) exhibited outstanding performance. The ANN model achieved an accuracy of 97% and an F1 score of 0.91 on the test set, while the SVM model achieved an accuracy of 98% and an F1 score of 0.94, indicating superior performance. Furthermore, the study revealed that the twinning stress in Fe81Ga19 alloy exhibited weak responsiveness to temperature during deformation, and the intrinsic factors of grains were identified as crucial factors influencing twin nucleation.

Stress relaxation mechanism and life evaluation of titanium alloy springs under long-term thermo-mechanical coupling conditions

The primary failure mode for helical compression springs under prolonged static thermo-mechanical coupling conditions is stress relaxation rather than fatigue failure. Unfortunately, for the investigation of spring failure modes, previous research has mainly focused on fatigue failure, while lacking exploration of the evolution of its microscopic mechanisms underlying stress relaxation and the resultant changes in mechanical properties. To elucidate the microstructure evolution mechanism of dual-phase titanium alloy springs exposed to long-term thermo-mechanical coupling conditions and to evaluate their life and reliability, a series of stress relaxation tests on Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy springs were carried out. The degradation of mechanical properties in Ti-6Al–4V springs under various temperatures and compressive deformations was analyzed. Additionally, microscopic mechanisms were further examined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron backscattering diffraction techniques (EBSD). Based on these investigations, a stress-life model for Ti-6Al-4V springs was established through maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and the Power-Exponential equation, followed by an evaluation of its reliability and life. The findings of this paper can provide engineering application guidance into the safe and reliable operation of dual-phase titanium alloy springs under thermo-mechanical coupling conditions.

Dynamic Recrystallization, Texture Evolution, and Improved Mechanical Properties of Mg-Y-Zn-V Alloy during Forging and Subsequent Extruding Deformation

In this paper, the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique was used to analyze the dynamic recrystallization (DRX), twinning, slip behavior, and texture evolution during forging and subsequent extruding deformation. The results show that, as the degree of strain increased (forging to extruding), the degree of DRX increased, and the DRX mechanism changed from discontinuous DRX (DDRX) during forging to DDRX and continuous DRX (CDRX) during extruding. Particle stimulation nucleation (PSN) promoting DRX occurred during deformation. The deformation process mainly produced {10–12} twins (TTW) and played a role in coordinating the deformation. The slip behavior also changed according to an analysis of in-grain misorientation axes (IGMA) results, changing from slip-dominated with a basal &lt;a&gt; slip to co-dominated with multiple slip modes, with the activation of mainly prismatic &lt;a&gt; and pyramidal &lt;c+a&gt; slip. Meanwhile, the strong basal texture at the beginning of the deformation also changed, and the texture strength decreased from 24.81 to 15.56. The weakening of the texture was mainly due to the formation of DRX grains and twins, as the newly formed DRX and twins reoriented. In the later stages of deformation, the activation of prismatic &lt;a&gt; slip and pyramidal &lt;c+a&gt; slip changed the basal texture component. Based on microstructural analysis, the improvement in mechanical properties was due to fine-grain strengthening and load-transfer strengthening. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) was 370.5 MPa, the yield strength (YS) was 340.1 MPa, and the elongation (EL) was 15.6%.