March 2024 Metallurgy Blog
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March 4, 2024
Complex Engineering Issue Finally Solved Thanks to New Titanium Metamaterial Design
Complex Engineering Issue Finally Solved Thanks to New Titanium Metamaterial Design
Scientists were finally able to solve a complex engineering problem thanks to a new titanium meta-material design. Prior to the production of the titanium-based metamaterial, scientists had spent years trying to find a solution for uneven weight distribution issues that were common among artificial metamaterials. Scientists at Australia's RMIT University drew inspiration from coral and plant structures to create the new metamaterial. The design of the material consisted of latticelike structures that were composed of hollow struts. To create it they used an advanced 3D printing tool called a laser powder bed fusion machine, which built the object by flash melting layered titanium granules directly into place. The metamaterial turned out to be highly resilient, being able to withstand 50% more weight than a dense cast of WE54 magnesium alloy. It also demonstrated excellent heat resistance, withstanding temperatures of up to 350-degress Celsius. However, researchers believe that the temperature threshold could be further increased with the use of more heat- resistant titanium alloys. Scientists say that this kind of design could have potential applications in rocketry, drone manufacturing, and human bone implants. Learn more about this topic here.
March 19, 2024
New Class of Polymer Lubricants Significantly Improve the Process of Cold Forming Metals
New Class of Polymer Lubricants Significantly Improve the Process of Cold Forming Metals
Cold forming metals is now a much more economical and sustainable process thanks to a new class of polymer lubricants. Cold forming is a complex process that is often used to process metals into wires. The issue is that the lubricants used for this application do not meet the requirements of the end processors. Consequently, five partners from industry and research sectors decided to come together as part of the KMU-innovativ project Polyschmierung, which resulted in the development of a new class of polymer lubricants that made the process more environmentally friendly and economical. Wire drawing is a process that requires a lot of effort and intense pre and post treatment. Wire mesh, metal springs, and nails are commonly produced through wire drawing. Lubricants play a key role in the process, as they help reduce friction, protect against corrosion, minimize heat generation, improve formability, and extend the service life of drawing dies. Previously, the issue was that after applying a carrier layer and intense treatment, the layer had to be removed again using toxic chemicals, which also expended a lot of time and energy. Sometimes the process caused the cold welding of wires if the pre-treatment or additive did not work. The newly introduced High Performance Polymer Lubricant (HPPL) class solved the previously identified issues, they simplify the treatment process, are water soluble for easy removal, and they minimize tool wear. These new lubricants are said to have revolutionized the cold forming of metals and they are already being used in industry. Learn more about this topic here.
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