TIMETAL 685, a near alpha alloy, combines excellent tensile strength with high temperature (968°F / 520°C) creep resistance. It is a weldable alloy that has good forging characteristics - forging temperatures above the beta transus can be used. The alloy may be joined by the processes normally used in the fabrication of titanium, including argon-arc, electron beam and friction welding. Material should be fully heat treated prior to welding, and also given a suitable post-weld treatment (example 4-8hrs at 1022°F / 550°C). The weld zone of material tr eated in this way will have similar structure and properties to the parent metal. TIMETAL 685 alloy was specifically developed for the aero-engine industry.