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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 16 February 2011
Superplastic testing of the aluminium-lithium alloy 8090 has been performed in the temperature range 485°C to 550°C. Up to 530°C, raising the test temperature has the effect of increasing the m-value and decreasing the flow stress. Changes in superplastic forming characteristics and microstructure have been followed during straining using a variety of techniques. Jump-strain rate testing reveals that in the optimum temperature range (515°C to 525°C).there is a steady decrease in m-value. Cavitation also occurs, but can be suppressed effectively by applying a hydrostatic pressure during testing. Raising the test temperature above this optimum range to 550°C produces a significant decrease in the m-value and a more rapid fall-off with strain. These observations are explained in terms of recrystallisation and grain growth, and the effectiveness of precipitates in pinning grain boundaries at the various temperatures.