CIP-FAST: assessing the production of complex geometry titanium components from powders by combining Cold Isostatic Pressing (CIP) and Field Assisted Sintering Technology (FAST)

A novel, two-step, solid-state method to produce complex geometry titanium parts was investigated by combining Cold Isostatic Pressing (CIP) with Field Assisted Sintering Technology (FAST). Hydride-dehydride powders of commercially pure and Ti-6Al-4V were CIP’ed into shaped compacts using silicone moulds, then further consolidated FAST, ZrO2 powder as a secondary pressing media. The final retained the features from CIP moulds but compressed in axis. Densities >99% achieved, optimised FAST processing parameters required for different alloys. High hardness fine equiaxed microstructures observed at edges parts, suggesting oxygen transfer media had occurred, more investigation needed better understand prevent this. Despite this, CIP-FAST process route has been demonstrated be fast, low-cost material-efficient option wide variety parts.