Production and fabrication of 2500-Lb. Nb-Ti ingots to rod

Interest in Nb-Ti superconducting devices is exploding. This paper outlines the critical production criteria for this material. Areas discussed include ingot blending, melting, forging, extrusion and rod reducing with emphasis on the metallurgical considerations affecting mechanical properties. Data are included relating process parameters to TEM finding as well as R.T. ductility and optical microscopy. The significance of these starting material considerations is of interest to the composite wire maker as well as to the device manufacturer.