Thread Rolling: Process description, types and applications
Thread rolling is a bulk cold forming process that is used to form threads on a variety of parts such as screws, bolts, and nuts. It has many advantages over traditional thread cutting processes such as tapping, thread milling, and thread grinding. Thread rolling offers the potential of higher throughput, greater precision, better surface finish, and improved thread accuracy. Depending on the application, it is also a cost-effective process.
Process description:
Thread rolling is a cold-forming process in which a hardened die that contains the inverted form of the thread being produced is pressed onto a part rotating at high velocity. The threads are formed as the die rolls against the workpiece. Rolling, rather than cutting, produces threads of uniform size and shape. The rolling action allows a very economical production of threads - compared to traditional cutting processes - and can lead to increased strength and safety.
Types:
Thread rolling is a versatile process that can be applied to a variety of workpieces. Different types of thread rolling include flat die thread rolling, straddle die thread rolling, and oval die thread rolling. Flat die thread rolling involves two rolling dies that move against a static part. Straddle die thread rolling is a more complex process in which two separate dies move independently to produce a single thread at a time. Oval die thread rolling produces four threads simultaneously by using four contiguous dies.
Applications:
Thread rolling finds its application in many industries including automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, power generation, and construction. Thread rolling can be used to form internal and external threads, either right hand or left hand, on a variety of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, Inconel and other exotic alloys. It is used to form threads on bolts, nuts, screws, and studs, as well as a variety of other fasteners. Thread rolling can also be used in the production of gaskets and other complex parts with internal threads.
Thread rolling is a cost-effective process as it eliminates the need for costly taps or dies, and also eliminates the need for secondary machining or grinding. This process can improve the surface finish of the thread and achieves higher accuracy and longer thread life than is possible with thread cutting processes.
Conclusion
Thread rolling is a bulk cold forming process used to create threads on parts such as screws, bolts, and nuts. It offers many benefits over traditional thread cutting processes such as higher throughput, greater precision, better surface finish, improved thread accuracy, and cost savings. Thread rolling is a versatile process and has application in many industries including automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, and power generation.
