Titanium is formed at room temperature in a process similar to that in steel.
Titanium has inferior ductility at room temperature than one of the remaining structural metals. This automatically results in reduced tensile formability and larger bending radius. Because of this property, hot forming is frequently used, especially where extra violent bending is required.
The elastic modulus of titanium is half that of steel, which means that the molding process can cause significant springback. Also, given the wear tendency of titanium, lubrication is an essential part of the pipe forming process.
Preparation for molding
In most cases, titanium requires no additional steps prior to the molding operation. It is possible to use them after receiving the ingots, but this may not always be effective.
After noticing any marks on the surface, these marks will be removed by different treatments. In addition, if there are any sharp edges, they should be smoothed before the actual pipe forming process. Otherwise, there is a risk of cracking the edges, which can affect the quality of the final product.
Type of molding
Titanium Pipes can be formed by two methods: cold and hot molding.
Cold forming
Titanium tubes are formed at low speeds and at room temperature, taking into account the elongation of the metal. Therefore, a tensile test will be conducted. The manufacturer will eliminate springback by using heat setting on the formed titanium tube.
Hot forming
It is a well-known fact that the ductility of titanium increases with temperature. Therefore, titanium tubes are normally made at elevated temperatures. With the increase of temperature, the forming operation of titanium tube becomes easier. Using this method, springback is practically eliminated when stage 5 titanium is formed.
Titanium tube bending
Titanium tubes are bent using conventional equipment. Mandrel bending machine is the first choice for tiny radius bending. In order to minimize the sagging tendency of titanium, proper lubrication must be performed on the bending equipment and wiper die. For best results, the bending process should be performed at a low speed.
How to manufacture titanium seamless tube?
The seamless tube can be made of commercially pure titanium or one of the existing titanium alloys. Initially, the processing temperature of titanium ingot was between 850oC and 1250oC, and finally it was reduced to 600oC and 1100oC.
As a result of the treatment, a solid blank will be obtained. It is then transformed into a hollow block through a perforating process at a temperature varying between -100oC and 1250oC.
The size is adjusted by stretching and then the reduction step is carried out. This occurs at temperatures between 600oC and 1100oC, resulting in a smaller outside diameter. Finally, the sizing step will be performed at varying temperatures between 550oC and 1150oC, which will significantly reduce the OD.
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The manufacturing method and equipment of titanium tubes are the same as those of other structural metals. It has peculiar properties and is recommended for use in extremely corrosive environments. Recognizing the benefits provided, titanium tubes are widely used in the aerospace industry.
Manufacturers can offer titanium tubes in a variety of sizes, diameters and wall thicknesses. The tubes are available in different grades of titanium, each with different properties and suitable for a variety of applications. Each titanium grade follows different technical requirements and is suitable for one type of application or another.