The processing of ultrafine-grained materials through the application of severe plastic deformation

The application of severe plastic deformation (SPD) to bulk metals provides the opportunity of achieving grain sizes in the submicrometer and nanometer range. Several different SPD processing techniques are now available including Equal-Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP), High-Pressure Torsion (HPT) and Accumulative Roll-Bonding (ARB). This paper examines the principles of grain refinement using ECAP and gives examples of the advantageous properties that may be achieved including increased strength at ambient temperatures and a superplastic forming capability at elevated temperatures