Abstract
The equal channel angular pressing (ECAP)
technique is now recognised for achieving very significant
grain refinement of ultra-fine grained materials which, at
present produce unique mechanical properties. This study
reports the results of the tensile tests and the microstructural
analysis carried out on the specimens of ultra-fine grained
(UFG) copper processed by ECAP technique at room
temperature using a die with a 126o between the die channels.
The copper samples used in this work were subjected to six
and twelve passes during the ECAP processing. Tensile tests
were conducted for samples cut out in two different directions;
in the parallel and perpendicular direction at room
temperature to evaluate the mechanical properties after the
ECAP at these two directions. The microstructural
characterization was carried out using optical electron
microscope (OEM) and scanning electronic microscope (SEM).
The results show ECAP technique introducing significant grain
refinement and produced ultrafine grains in copper and there
is a potential for achieving high ductility in the copper alloy
after processing. The tested sample is characterized by
significant differences of strength properties depending on the
direction.