The effect of defects on the mechanical properties of fibre reinforced titanium metal matrix composites under fatigue loading

Friend, Gareth William (2014). The effect of defects on the mechanical properties of fibre reinforced titanium metal matrix composites under fatigue loading. University of Birmingham. Eng.D.

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Abstract

Applications for titanium metal matrix composites (TiMMCs) are currently being developed by Rolls-Royce plc in gas turbine engine components. With any component manufacturing process there is a probability of defects, as much of the work on TiMMCs to date has been laboratory scale there is as yet no study that looks specifically at the defects that can arise in full scale components. This work set out to investigate the influence of a selection of defects on the fatigue properties of titanium diffusion bonds – an integral joint type in TiMMC components – using conditions derived from TiMMC component stress analysis. The study found that cladding material microstructure and texture greatly affected the fatigue life of the bond. This was characterised by a new technique called Spatially Resolved Acoustic Spectroscopy (SRAS). Airborne debris and residual degreasing agent staining were found to be contaminants the most detrimental to fatigue life and methods of modifying the manufacturing process have been suggested to eliminate them. A number of other methods have been discussed for reducing the sensitivity of the TiMMC components to defects of this type through the control of residual stresses microstructure and texture.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Eng.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Eng.D.

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