Methods of forming metal articles

Abstract

Described is the production of a metal article with fine metallurgical structure and texture by a process that includes forging and rolling and control of the forging and rolling conditions. Also described is a metal article with a minimum of statically crystallized grain size and a uniform (100) cubic texture.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A metal article, such as a sputtering target, comprising at least about 99.95 wt. % tantalum and a substantially uniform (100) cubic texture.  
     
     
         2 . A high purity tantalum sputtering target comprising at least about 99.95 wt. % tantalum and a substantially uniform (100) cubic texture at the target surface.  
     
     
         3 . A high purity tantalum sputtering target according to  claim 2  produced from a frictionless forged billet.  
     
     
         4 . A high purity tantalum sputtering target according to  claim 2  having substantially uniform (100) cubic texture at the center location, mid-radial location and edge locations of the target surface.