Titanium is formed at room temperature, a process similar to one in
steel.
Titanium is less malleable at room temperature than one of the other
structural metals. This automatically results in reduced stretch forming and a
large bending radius. Due to this characteristic, thermoforming is sometimes
used, especially if more intense bending is required (or in the case of stretch
molding).
Titanium's elastic modulus is half that of steel, which means that the
molding process can cause significant rebounds (which the manufacturer will
compensate for).
Similarly, lubrication is an important part of the tube molding process,
given the wear trend of titanium (greater than the wear trend of steel).
Preparation for molding
In most cases, titanium does not require additional action prior to molding
operation. They can be used after receiving ingots, but this may not always be
effective.
When any traces on its surface (e.g. chisels) are noticed, they are removed
by different treatments (sandblasting, pickling, etc.). In addition, if there
are any sharp edges, smooth them before the actual pipe molding process.
Otherwise, there is a risk of cracking edges, which can affect the quality of
the final product.
The molding type
Titanium tubes can be formed by two methods: cold and hot molding.
Cold molding
Titanium tubes are formed at low speeds and at room temperature, taking
into account the elongation of metals. Therefore, the stretch test will be
performed. The manufacturer will eliminate the rebound by using thermal training
on the molded titanium tube.
Thermoforming
It is well known that the malleability of titanium, including bending and
stretch forming, increases with temperature. As a result, titanium tubes are
usually made at high temperatures. As the temperature increases, it becomes
easier to form titanium tubes.
Using this method, the rebound is virtually eliminated when grade 5
titanium (Gr5 TC4) is formed.
The titanium tube is bent
Titanium tubes are bent using conventional equipment. The spindle elbow
machine is the first choice for small radius bending. In order to minimize the
sagging trend of titanium, proper lubrication must be made of elbow equipment
and wiper molds. For best results, the bending process should be carried out at
low speeds.
How are titanium seamless tubes manufactured?
The seamless tube can be made of commercially pure titanium or one of the
existing titanium alloys.
Initially, titanium ingots were processed at temperatures ranging from
850oC to 1250oC and eventually reduced to 600oC to 1100oC.
As a result of the treatment, solid blanks are given. It is then turned
into hollow blocks through the perforation process at temperatures ranging from
-100oC to 1250oC.
Dimension by elongation, and then take the reduction step. This occurs at
temperatures between 600oC and 1100oC, resulting in a decrease in the outer
diameter. Finally, the pulping step will be performed at a varying temperature
between 550oC and 1150oC, which will further reduce the outer diameter.
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