β phase morphology analysis for enhancing friction properties and wear resistance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the morphology of β phase and the wear characteristic of Ti-6Al-4V (TC4) alloy. The coefficient of friction of the equiaxed β phase structure was reduced by 34.0 % and the wear rate was decreased by 25.9 % compared to the layered β phase structure. The excellent strain coordination of the equiaxed β phase could maintain its wear resistance, which was because the shear stress was less concentrated. More 12 dislocations were activated in the equiaxed β phase, which made {110} slip system easier to slip and it alleviates shear stress concentration. This study provided valuable evidence for improving their wear resistance. [Display omitted] •The tribological properties and wear mechanism of TC4 alloys with different β phase morphologies were studied.•The equiaxed β phase could maintain its wear resistance because the shear stress was less concentrated.•More dislocations were activated in the equiaxed β phase, which alleviated its shear stress concentration.