| Sol No.: |
Navy SBIR FY2012.2 |
| Topic No.: |
N122-123 |
| Topic Title: |
Direct Digital Fabrication and Characterization of New Low Cost Titanium Alloys |
| Proposal No.: |
N122-123-0787 |
| Firm: |
Materials & Electrochemical Research (MER) Corp.
7960 S. Kolb Rd.
Tucson, Arizona 85756-9237 |
| Contact: |
Roger Storm |
| Phone: |
(520) 574-1980 |
| Web Site: |
www.mercorp.com |
| Abstract: |
In this Phase I program, MER will work with Prof. James Williams of Ohio State University (OSU) to identify and fabricate new titanium alloys of interest to the Navy. The alloys will be fabricated using a low cost DDM process in place at MER which utilizes a plasma transferred arc welding torch as the heat source. The mechanical properties and microstructure of these new alloys will be characterized. This program will be expanded in Phase II to include a modeling based approach to further identify the optimum alloys and address the qualification of the new alloys. MER will also produce the alloys in Phase II using a very low cost powder route which has the potential to produce titanium alloy components for <$10/lb. |
| Benefits: |
The development and subsequent manufacturing of a new low cost high performance Ti alloy will result in a significant expansion of Ti utilization in both military and commercial applications. For the military, this will include components for Navy aerospace applications. The lower cost and lighter weight will also result in greater utilization in the automotive sector. |