Enhancing tribological performance of β-titanium alloy using electrical discharge process

Abstract

In this study, medical-grade β-titanium (Ti–35Nb–7Ta–5Zr) alloy was treated using the electrical discharge machining process. Biofavorable substances, such as multiwalled carbon (C) nanotubes and μ-hydroxyapatite powder, were selected for possible deposition during the production of spark between electrodes. The L18 array was used to conduct the experiments considering polarities, peak current, pulse on time, pulse off time, dielectric medium and tool electrode material as machining variables. The treated surfaces were evaluated in terms of change in surface microhardness, recast layer morphology and wear behavior. The outcome revealed that the alloy treated at high spark energy using a tungsten (W) tool electrode incorporating multiwalled carbon nanotubes in the dielectric medium favored the synthesis of a high-quality wear-resistant substrate. The presence of titanium carbide (TiC), niobium carbide (NbC) and tungsten carbide (WC) phases detected from X-ray diffraction examination confirmed that the microhardness of the recast layer, as well as wear resistance of the substrate, was significantly affected by multiwalled carbon nanotube deposition.

Surface Characterization and Tribological Performance Analysis of Electric Discharge Machined Duplex Stainless Steel

“…It is observable from the images ( Figure 4 a,b) that higher spark energy (Spark Energy = Current × P-on × Voltage) generate pores along with small peaks and valleys on the EDT surface [ 39 , 40 ]. The presence of the pores and molten metal droplets on the surface promotes the biological performance of the substrates [ 41 ].…”

Examination of hemocompatibility and corrosion resistance of electrical discharge-treated duplex stainless steel (DSS-2205) for biomedical applications

“…Hanawa concluded in his study that stainless steel takes more time as compared to other materials to regenerate the passive oxide film [14]. To assuage the implant performance, surface alteration of implant plays a vital role in establishing the enduring relations between the metallic implants and biological environment [15]. Disegi revealed that the DSS composed with a higher amount of molybdenum and nitrogen content exhibit enhance corrosion resistance [16].…”