The Impact of Plasma Hearth Melting on Metallurgical Features of Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb Cast and Heat Treated Ingots

Internal integrity and metallurgical properties of cast titanium aluminides are significantly influenced by casting and solidification rate, residual stress, and post-casting operations such as hot isostatic pressing and heat treatments. Microstructure has an important role in controlling mechanical properties and machinability; consequently, it is critical that melters and processors of titanium aluminide products understand the influence of key process parameters on microstructure evolution. The objective of the present work is to provide an overview of how the melting process can impact internal stress and metallurgical attributes. General trends obtained from solidification and residual stress modeling, and metallurgical examinations will be discussed.