Compressive strength and microstructural behavior of Ti6Al4V powders consolidated by spark plasma sintering

Ti6Al4V commonly known as Ti64, is a lightweight alloy with particular properties such as good strength, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility which make it the alloy of choice for many different applications. In comparison to conventional sintering methods, spark plasma sintering (SPS) is a rapid sintering process that uses pressure and temperature simultaneously, resulting in higher relative densities and better mechanical properties. In this study, the spark plasma sintering of Ti64 powder was performed at 850 ⸰C for 10 min, and the properties were evaluated. Microstructural examination, relative density measurement, microhardness and the compressive strength determination were performed. A qualitative phase analysis via X-ray diffraction technique, and the microstructural studies revealed the presence of some β phase formation due to transus transformation. Compressive strength of about 840 MPa and hardness of more than 300 VHN were recorded for the SPSed samples.