Alpha rolling involves deforming titanium alloys at temperatures where the metal maintains a hexagonal close-packed crystalline structure. Keeping the temperature in the alpha phase range prevents the excessive grain growth that occurs in the beta phase. This process refines the microstructure and improves the fatigue strength and ductility of the final aerospace or medical component.
Heard on the job
We need to keep the billet temperature strictly under 950 degrees to ensure proper alpha rolling.
Insider tip
Operators closely monitor pyrometers during alpha rolling because exceeding the beta transus temperature will completely alter the mechanical properties of the titanium.