Multilayered interface in Ti/Macor® machinable glass-ceramic joints

Macor® machinable glass-ceramic and commercially pure (cp.) titanium were joined by active metal brazing, using a 64Ag–34.5Cu–1.5Ti (wt.%) filler alloy. The influence of the brazing temperature and holding stage on the microstructure and hardness profile of the interface, as well as on the shear strength of the joint, were assessed. Brazing was performed in a high vacuum furnace at 850, 890 and 930°C for 10 and 30 min. The reaction between the braze alloy and both materials led to the formation of a multilayered interface. The interfacial microstructure was analysed in a scanning electronic microscope (SEM) and the composition of each reaction layer was investigated by energy dispersive X-ray scans (EDS). The interfacial hardness profile was determined by a series of microhardness tests on each reaction layer. The mechanical strength of the joint was assessed from shear tests conducted at room temperature. Brazing at 850°C with a 10 min holding stage produced stronger joints, with an average shear strength of more than 85% of the glass-ceramic bulk strength.