Titanium, due to its lightness, strength and resistance to corrosion, is one of the most popular metals in the industry. Titanium alloys can withstand the effects of water and aggressive liquids, so they are actively used in aircraft, ship and automotive construction. VolgSTU researchers have developed a technology for increasing the strength and durability of titanium-based materials:
“Electromechanical treatment was used for surface hardening, which consisted in exposing the material to a high-density electric current (from 200 A/mm)2 up to 1000 A/mm2) and low voltage (1.5—2 V) passed through the local contact zone (about 1.5—2 mm in size)2) a tool with a sample surface,” says Igor Zakharov, Head of the Material Resistance Department at Volgograd State Technical University.
Thus, the operating time of hardened products increases by 1.5—2 times, and the strength increases by 30-40%. According to the expert, the introduction of the developed technology into industry will expand the possibilities of using titanium alloys in units operating under conditions of intense friction, wear and repetitive loads, for example, in aviation, rocket and space, military equipment and medical devices.
