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Analysis of Mechanical Properties and Processing Technology of TA18 Titanium Alloy

I. Overview of TA18 Titanium Alloy
TA18 titanium alloy is a titanium alloy mainly composed of α-phase titanium, with aluminum and tin as the main alloying elements. This alloy features excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, and is widely used in aerospace, chemical engineering, and medical device industries. The aluminum content in its composition is typically between 5.5% and 6.5%, while the tin content ranges from 3.5% to 4.5%.

II. Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of TA18 titanium alloy are outstanding, mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Strength: The tensile strength of TA18 is typically between 900 and 950 MPa, and its yield strength is approximately 800 to 850 MPa. This gives it an advantage in applications with high strength requirements.
Ductility: The elongation of this alloy can reach 10% to 15%, providing excellent plastic processing capability while ensuring strength.
Hardness: The Brinell hardness of TA18 is between 290 and 320 HB, making it suitable for manufacturing highly wear-resistant parts.
High-temperature resistance: TA18 alloy has good stability in high-temperature environments and can maintain excellent mechanical properties at 500°C, making it suitable for high-temperature structural components.

III. Processing Technology
The processing technology of TA18 titanium alloy is relatively complex, mainly including the following aspects:
Heat treatment: TA18 alloy can undergo solution treatment and aging treatment during heat treatment. The solution treatment temperature is between 900 and 950℃, with a holding time of approximately 1 hour, followed by rapid cooling to enhance its strength and hardness.
Machining: Due to the high strength and great toughness of TA18 titanium alloy, high-hardness cutting tools should be selected during machining. The cutting speed should be controlled at 30-60 m/min, and the cutting depth and feed rate should be appropriately reduced to prevent excessive tool wear.
Welding: The welding of TA18 alloy should be carried out by methods such as tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding and should be performed under the protection of inert gas to prevent oxidation and nitridation, ensuring the quality of the weld seam.
Forming process: This alloy exhibits excellent plasticity during hot forging and cold forging, making it suitable for forming complex-shaped parts. The hot forging temperature is generally controlled at 800-900℃ to prevent excessive hardening.

IV. Conclusion
TA18 titanium alloy, with its outstanding mechanical properties and processing techniques, has become an indispensable material in various industries. By optimizing heat treatment, cutting processing and welding techniques, its performance and application scope can be further enhanced. Understanding its characteristics and processes will help to fully leverage its advantages in actual production.