DRDO develops high-strength titanium alloys for the aerospace industry

DRDO’s new development for Areospace Indusrty. Know more…

Thursday, 22nd July 2021

The National Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) independently developed a high-strength metastable beta titanium alloy that can be used for forging aerospace structures. The metal contains vanadium, iron, and aluminum.

In recent years, many developed countries have used these alloys as a useful substitute for relatively heavy traditional nickel, chromium and molybdenum structural steels to reduce weight. The enforceability of the high strength-to-weight ratio Ti10V2Fe3Al alloy facilitates the manufacture of parts for aerospace applications.

According to DRDO, high-strength beta titanium alloys are unique because of their higher strength, ductility, fatigue, and fracture toughness, which makes them increasingly attractive for aircraft structural applications.

The National Defense Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) carried out raw material selection, alloy melting, thermomechanical processing, ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation (NDE), heat treatment, and mechanical characterization.

"Due to its superior corrosion resistance compared to steel, its lifetime cost is relatively low, which is an effective trade-off justifying the use of this expensive material in India," DRDO said in a statement.

The Aviation Development Agency (ADA) has identified more than 15 steel components, which can be replaced by metastable Beta titanium alloy forgings in the near future and can reduce weight by 40%.

The landing gear downlink is the first component successfully forged by ADA in Bangalore HAL. DMRL has participated and obtained the airworthiness certification.

Defense Secretary Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and the industry for their independent development of high-strength alloys, which will be useful to the aerospace industry.

The News Talkie Bureau

Source:

India Today