Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 February 2011
The bimetallic valves were produced using a new technique, IFFM (Impact Fused-Forging Modeling). Distribution of the alloy components as well as phase composition across the valve section was obtained by means of energy-dispersive analysis and X-ray diffraction. Optic and electron microscopy research of macro- and microstructure was conducted. High quality of the joint between the sintermetallic (TiAl) head and the titanium (VT-9 and VT-6 alloys) stem was demonstrated. As a result of the contact of the stem with the semi-solid intermetallics at the temperature above Tc, a polymorphous transformation was obtained in the upper part of the Ti-based stem. The globular microstructure in the intermetallic head in the area near to the joint of the two alloys was achieved. The results proved that the process allows production of complex shaped parts based on advanced alloys of high quality, featuring extra wear-resistance and strength.