Low ΔK faceted crack growth in titanium alloys

This communication describes the results of spectrum fatigue loading experiments conducted on cast and hot isostatically pressed Ti-6Al-4V. The purpose of the experiments is to elucidate the nature of faceted crack growth that occurs at low values of Delta K in titanium alloys during cyclic loading. The results clearly show that multiple load cycles are required for the crack to traverse one grain and produce a single facet. The confusing terminology related to low Delta K fatigue fracture topography is reviewed and the term low Delta K faceted growth is proposed as a preferred descriptor. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.