Analysis of the Microstructure and Tribology of Ti₃₆-Al₁₆-V₁₆-Fe₁₆-Cr₁₆ HEA Developed with SPS for Engineering Applications

A high level of recognition has been given to high-entropy alloys (HEAs) in recent years because of their excellent properties over conventional superalloys. Consequently, research focus has shifted to the development and characterization of high-performing HEAs. The objective of this work was to develop and characterize Ti₃₆-Al₁₆-V₁₆-Fe₁₆-Cr₁₆ HEA with the aim of determining its performance over conventional superalloys in engineering applications. Spark plasma sintering was the fabrication technique used. SEM–EDS and XRD were used in the characterization while a nano indenter and tribometer were used in the Vickers hardness and wear testing, respectively. Results obtained showed that a sintering temperature of 1000°C was optimal. The developed HEA had a Vickers hardness improvement of 136% over the Ti6Al4V alloy; and a wear rate improvement of 157% over Inconel 718 alloy, and 614% over TiAl alloy. It was concluded that the developed HEA can perform much better than conventional Ti6Al4V and other superalloys in engineering applications.