Effect of Ultrasonic Rolling Surface Technique on the Surface Microstructure and Properties of CuTi Alloys

Using the ultrasonic surface rolling technique (USRT), a surface nanocrystalline layer was prepared on the CuTi alloy by adjusting the rolling depth. The phase composition, surface hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of the generated nanocrystalline layer were systematically characterized by using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and other testing methods. The results showed that the USRT did not change the surface phase of the CuTi alloy but refined the surface grains into nanocrystals. The rolling depth had a significant influence on the surface properties of the CuTi alloy. When the rolling depth was 0.15 mm, the overall performance of the sample’s surface was the best. The average grain size of the nanocrystalline layer was approximately 16.1 nm, and the surface hardness was increased from 257.68 HV_0.1 to 322.7 HV_0.1. The wear resistance and corrosion resistance of the alloy were significantly enhanced. The USRT provides a new method for preparing CuTi alloys with excellent surface properties.