Hot ductility of titanium alloy: a challenge for continuous casting process

The characteristics of hot ductility of various titanium alloys have been studied up to the melting point, and compared with those of carbon steels. The applicability of continuous casting and direct hot rolling is discussed for producing high quality materials and reducing the production cost. Embrittlement occurs just below the β transus temperature (Tβ) in coarse grain titanium alloys (zone III). Thus, it is better for continuous casting to pass the unbending point just above Tβ and also to finish hot rolling above this temperature in order to avoid cracking.