Submit to Processes Review for Processes Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Processes (ISSN 2227-9717). This special issue belongs to the section "Materials Processes".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2024) | Viewed by 10226

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Zhou Li

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
Interests: metal composite materials; advanced forming technology; lightweight design; manufacturing of automobile bodies; integration of new energy pure electric vehicle drive systems

Dr. Yao Lu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Welding and Additive Manufacturing Centre, Cranfield University, Cranfield, Bedfordshire MK43 0AL, UK
Interests: advanced forming techniques; additive manufacturing; materials processing and design
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Processes is a multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed international journal committed to advancing the fundamental understanding and broader application of metals and alloys. This journal plays a critical role in bridging the gap between pure research and its practical application, serving as a crucial medium to share advancements, innovations, and breakthroughs in the fields of material science and engineering. Our scope encompasses a wide range of topics, from the processing of metals and alloys—including casting, forming, machining, and joining—to the exploration of their properties and performance under various conditions. We also delve into innovative manufacturing methods and the development of new alloys, providing comprehensive coverage of both conventional and advanced approaches.

This Special Issue on “Processing, Manufacturing and Properties Study of Metal and Alloys” seeks high quality works focusing on the advanced processing and manufacturing technologies to improve the performance of new metal and alloys. Topics include, but are not limited to:

Advaced manufacturing of metal,alloys and composites: Investigating the feasibility, process optimization, and properties of metal, alloys and composites produced through additive manufacturing, forming, rolling, forging and casting techniques.
Multi-material joining techniques for lightweight structures: Examining innovative methods for joining dissimilar metals and alloys to enable the fabrication of lightweight structures with superior properties.
Tribological properties of surface-engineered coatings and cladding metals: Investigating the friction, wear, and lubrication properties of advanced surface coatings and cladding metals, including cladding composite, thin films, nanocomposites, and self-lubricating coatings, for applications in high-performance machining, automotive, and aerospace industries.
Fatigue and fracture of lightweight alloys and composites: Investigating the fatigue life, crack initiation, and propagation behavior.
CNC machining technology for metals and alloys: Investigating recent technological advancements in CNC machining for metals and alloys, including new machine designs, software innovations, and enhanced cutting tool materials.

Dr. Zhou Li
Dr. Yao Lu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Processes is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

advanced manufacturing
multi-material joining techniques
tribological properties
fatigue and fracture
CNC machining technology

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (10 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 13446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study and Analysis of Corrosion Rate, Hot Tensile Properties, and Metallurgical Changes of SSDS 2507 and AISI 316 Dissimilar Weldments

by Mamatha Vemulawada, Megersa Olumana Dinka, Abhishek Agarwal, Masengo Ilunga, Balram Yelamasetti, Srinivasa Vadayar K and Naveen Kumar P

Processes 2025, 13(1), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13010167 - 9 Jan 2025

Viewed by 298

Abstract

This research study aims to study and investigate the corrosion rate, hot tensile properties, and microstructures of SSDS 2507 and AISI 316 gas tungsten arc dissimilar weldments. Three separate samples were developed with frequencies of 2, 4, and 6 Hz using the pulse arc mode technique. The tensile characteristics were assessed at two distinct temperatures (27 °C and 350 °C) in order to examine the behavior of the welded structure. Mechanical characterization such as hardness measurement and corrosion behavior were studied. The metallurgical characteristics of pulsed and continuous current weldments were examined using microscopes (optical and scanning), revealing variations across different zones. At the 4 Hz pulse frequency, the material exhibited improved tensile qualities compared to constant arc welding. The microstructures indicated that the fusion zone in the pulsed arc weldment consisted of a balanced mixture of inter-granular austenite and ferrite phases. A better corrosion resistance rate of 0.0487 mm/year was observed in the pulsed arc weldment compared to both the SSDS2507 base metal and the constant arc weldment. Specifically, at a temperature of 27 °C, the ultimate tensile strength was 695 MPa, whereas at a temperature of 350 °C, the tensile strength was 475 MPa. The weld strength of the pulsed arc weldment exhibited a 15.8% improvement in comparison to the constant arc weldment. The surface hardness value increased to 240 HV compared to the constant arc weldment, which had an HV of 225. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 6645 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Boron-Al Metal Matix Composite and Aluminum Alloy in Enhancing Dynamic Performance of Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine

by Abhishek Agarwal and Linda Mthembu

Processes 2024, 12(10), 2288; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12102288 - 18 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 938

Abstract

This study aims to assess the dynamic performance of the vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) with the help of conventional aluminum (Al) and the boron Al metal matrix composite (MMC). The simulations were conducted using ANSYS software and involved natural frequencies, mode shapes, a mass participation factor, and Campbell plots. The results of static structural analysis show that the boron Al MMC is vastly superior to the aluminum alloy because there is a 65% reduction of equivalent stress with a 70% reduction of deformation compared to the aluminum alloy. These results show that boron Al MMC can withstand higher loads with lesser stress; the structure remains compact and rigid in its working conditions. From the findings, it can be ascertained that employing boron Al MMC improves VAWT power, efficiency, and robustness. However, the critical speed that was established in the dynamic analysis of boron Al MMC requires extraordinary control and the use of dampening systems, thereby avoiding resonance. Overall, boron Al MMC contributes to significant enhancements in the VAWTs’ mechanical and operational characteristics; however, the material’s complete potential can be achieved only with proper maintenance and employing the correct damping techniques. Information about these two materials will allow for a better understanding of their comparative efficacy and their potential application in the further development of VAWTs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 7574 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Assessment of Abrasion Resistance of Casted Non-Ferrous Metals and Alloys with the Use of 3D Scanning

by Paweł Strzępek

Processes 2024, 12(10), 2200; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12102200 - 10 Oct 2024

Viewed by 789

Abstract

Three-dimensional scanning techniques are being more frequently used in modern industry, especially for quality control. This study shows the possibility of implementing 3D scanning as a tool for assessing the abrasion resistance of non-ferrous metal and alloy cast rods obtained in the continuous casting process. Samples of the same diameter after preweighing and initial scanning were subjected to abrasion tests in five identical cycles to show the progress of their wear. To conduct this process, the samples were weighed and scanned after each cycle. After the final abrasion test, the pure aluminum weight loss was 7%, with 3.4–4.1 mm abrasion, while the AlSi alloy had a weight loss of only 4.63% and 2.3–2.4 mm abrasion. When it came to pure copper, the loss was 2.76%, with 1.6–1.7 mm abrasion. CuNiSi alloys showed a loss between 2.01% and 2.24% and 1.3–1.5 mm abrasion, while CuMg alloys showed a loss between 1.51% and 1.63% and 1.2–1.4 mm abrasion, depending on the Ni and Mg content, respectively. The obtained results were correlated with the density and hardness of the tested materials and proved that both these factors are relevant when it comes to abrasion resistance; however, hardness is more significant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1873 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Alloy Composition Dynamics: Thermodynamic Analysis of Fe-Al-Si-Cr System in Homogeneous Liquid State

by Yerbol Shabanov, Yerlan Zhumagaliyev, Nurzhan Nurgali, Murat Dossekenov, Karlyga Almuratova, Raigul Orynbassar, Tursyngul Kainenova, Botagoz Bakirova, Fatima Kanapiyeva and Elvira Zhunussova

Processes 2024, 12(9), 1947; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12091947 - 11 Sep 2024

Viewed by 780

Abstract

This study employs thermodynamic-diagram analysis to investigate component ratios within the Fe-Al-Si-Cr system, focusing on the behavior of homogeneous liquid states. Through comprehensive modeling, a phase diagram is constructed, elucidating the interplay of iron, aluminum, silicon, and chromium components. This study identifies stable elementary tetrahedra within the system, providing insights into phase compositions and distribution. Key findings reveal the significance of tetrahedral geometry in understanding and optimizing alloy compositions, particularly in the context of complex chromium alloys. This research underscores the utility of thermodynamic analysis in advancing our understanding of alloy systems and facilitating the optimization of production processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 19038 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Processing of Ilmenite Concentrate with High Chromium Content

by Bagdaulet Kenzhaliyev, Almagul Ultarakova, Azamat Toishybek and Nurzhan Sadykov

Processes 2024, 12(7), 1462; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12071462 - 12 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 780

Abstract

The results of research on the processing of ilmenite concentrate from the Obukhovskoye deposit are presented in this article. As the concentrate has a high chromium content, the study involved converting the iron into metal and the titanium into slag through the addition of soda. Positive results were obtained during the smelting of the ilmenite concentrate, and a one-stage smelting mode was established. This mode involved an increase in the temperature up to 1700 °C, with a heating step of 10 °C/min and using an argon supply. The holding time at this temperature was 30 min, followed by cooling to 700 °C in argon. The optimal parameters for sintering the non-magnetic fraction with soda and leaching the sinter with water and hydrochloric acid solution were also determined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 35507 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nano-Strand Formation via Gas Phase Reactions from Al-Co-Fe Reacted with CaF₂-SiO₂-Al₂O₃-MgO Flux at 1350 °C: SEM Study and Thermochemistry Calculations

by Theresa Coetsee and Frederik De Bruin

Processes 2024, 12(7), 1342; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12071342 - 27 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1140

Abstract

The submerged arc welding (SAW) process is operated at high temperatures, up to 2500 °C, in the arc cavity formed by molten oxy-fluoride flux (slag). These high arc cavity temperatures and the complex interaction of gas–slag–metal reactions in a small space below the arc render the study of specific chemical interactions difficult. The importance of gas phase reactions in the arc cavity of the SAW process is well established. A low-temperature (1350 °C) experimental method was applied to simulate and study the vaporisation and re-condensation behaviour of the gas species emanating from oxy-fluoride flux. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses and reaction thermochemistry calculations were combined to explain the role of Al as a de-oxidiser element in gas phase chemistry and, consequently, in nano-strand formation reactions. EDX element maps showed that the nano-strands contain elemental Ti only, and the nano-strand end-caps contain Co-Mn-Fe fluoride. This indicates a sequence of condensation reactions, as Ti in the gas phase is re-condensed first to form the nano-strands and the end-caps formed from subsequent re-condensation of Co-Mn-Fe fluorides. The nano-strand diameters are approximately 120 nm to 360 nm. The end-cap diameter typically matches the nano-strand diameter. Thermochemical calculations in terms of simple reactions confirm the likely formation of the nanofeatures from the gas phase species due to the Al displacement of metals from their metal fluoride gas species according to the reaction: yAl + xMF_y ↔ xM + yAlF_x. The gas–slag–metal equilibrium model shows that TiO₂ in the flux is transformed into TiF₃ gas. Formation of Ti nano-strands is possible via displacement of Ti from TiF₃ by Al to form Al-fluoride gas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 6875 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Tribocorrosion Behavior of Ti-6Al-4V Biomedical Alloy in Simulated Oral Environments

by Sónia I. G. Fangaia, Ana Messias, Fernando A. D. R. A. Guerra, Ana C. F. Ribeiro, Artur J. M. Valente and Pedro M. G. Nicolau

Processes 2024, 12(7), 1283; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12071283 - 21 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 695

Abstract

The sliding wear of Ti-6Al-4V alloys coexisting with dental amalgam in a simulated temperature-controlled cell was evaluated. Disc-shaped samples of Ti-6Al-4V (n = 30) and spherical silver amalgam (n = 30) were prepared. Discs were subjected to wear while immersed in artificial and fluoridated saliva as follows: Ti-6Al-4V–Ti-6Al-4V (G1); amalgam–amalgam (G2), and Ti-6Al-4V–amalgam (G3). Samples were analyzed for mass variation, volume loss, and surface roughness. Wear tracks were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Wearing induced significant mass loss for all groups except G3 in fluoridated saliva: Ti-6Al-4V (p = 0.045) and amalgam (p = 0.732). These samples presented an increase in mean surface roughness (p = 0.032 and 0.010, respectively). Overall, Ti-6Al-4V showed 0.07 mm³ (95% CI: [0.06–0.07]) higher wear track volume. Ti-6Al-4V has a higher mass loss when subjected to fluoridated media but no significant roughness variation. Fluor-containing substances should be avoided over Ti-6Al-4V alloys placed in areas of mechanical wear, especially if dental amalgam is also present. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 13043 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Performance of Micro Deep Drawing through the Application of TiO₂ Nanolubricant and Graphene Lubricants on SUS 301 Stainless Steel Foil

by Di Pan, Guangqing Zhang, Fanghui Jia, Yao Lu, Jun Wang, Zhou Li, Lianjie Li, Ming Yang and Zhengyi Jiang

Processes 2023, 11(10), 3042; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11103042 - 23 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1384

Abstract

In recent years, the quest for effective lubrication in micro deep drawing (MDD) has seen promising advancements. In this study, the influence of TiO₂ nanolubricants and graphene lubricants on the performance of 301 stainless steel foil in MDD is examined. The MDD undergoes an extensive evaluation of various lubrication conditions, including dry, TiO₂ nanolubricant, graphene lubricant at concentrations of 2.5 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, and 10.0 mg/mL, as well as combined applications of TiO₂ and graphene lubricants. Utilising a 5.0 mg/mL graphene lubricant together with TiO₂ nanolubricants led to a significant reduction in drawing force, highlighting the synergistic efficacy of this combined lubricant. A pronounced enhancement in the consistency of the produced microcups was also attained. These results emphasise the promise of TiO₂ nanolubricant and graphene lubricants in optimising the MDD process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 16237 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Energy Efficiency of the Production of Pipes Welded with High-Frequency Induction

by Zbigniew Techmański, Jacek Stępień, Tomasz Garstka, Paweł Wieczorek, Grzegorz Golański and Jan Supernak

Processes 2023, 11(9), 2798; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11092798 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1834

Abstract

This article presents the technical aspects that may reduce electric power consumption during the welding of pipes with the high-frequency induction (HFI) method. Experiments were carried out at Huta Łabędy S.A. Steelworks, during the test production of 323.9 × 5.6 mm pipes of P235GH steel grade. Two sets of HFI heating system settings were studied: with a variable squeeze force of the heated edges and a variable position of the inductor in relation to the welding point. It was proven that the temperature at the welding point increased due to the stronger squeeze of the heated edges, which reduced the electric power consumption. Reducing the distance of the inductor relative to the welding point had the same effect. By optimizing the squeeze force and the position of the inductor, energy consumption was reduced by about 5.5%. Microstructural studies of the welds did not show any adverse effects of the optimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

32 pages, 3599 KiB

Open AccessReview

Welding and Additive Manufacturing Challenges in Nickel Superalloys: The Impact of Hydrogen Embrittlement

by Igor Fernando Martins de Souza, Kaue Correa Riffel, Luiz Eduardo dos Santos Paes, Sinésio Domingues Franco and Leonardo Rosa Ribeiro da Silva

Processes 2025, 13(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13010033 - 27 Dec 2024

Viewed by 773

Abstract

Nickel superalloys are indispensable in industries that demand a fusion of high-temperature mechanical strength and exceptional oxidation resistance, making them ideal for aerospace, power generation, and chemical processing applications. Their versatility extends to various welding applications, including coatings, buttering, and additive manufacturing, where they serve as critical components due to their superior performance characteristics. However, a significant challenge faced by these alloys is hydrogen embrittlement—a phenomenon that can severely compromise their mechanical integrity, leading to catastrophic component failures. This review article synthesizes recent research on hydrogen embrittlement in nickel superalloys, with a focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms that contribute to this phenomenon. It explores how welding processes, including the choice of welding parameters and post-weld treatments, influence the susceptibility to hydrogen uptake and subsequent embrittlement. Furthermore, this review highlights effective strategies for prevention, such as the use of low-hydrogen electrodes, controlled welding environments, and post-weld heat treatments designed to minimize hydrogen diffusion. By addressing these critical aspects, this article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current challenges and advancements in mitigating hydrogen embrittlement, thereby enhancing the reliability and longevity of nickel superalloy components in demanding industrial applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Processing, Manufacturing and Properties of Metal and Alloys

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (10 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI