Tension Rolling
Tension rolling is a process used to deform metal through tension. It involves the application of two opposing forces to a metal bar or tube, causing the metal to stretch out and assume a desired shape. The process can be used to shape smaller pieces of metal than may otherwise be possible using other methods. It is commonly used for jobs such as forming support braces, creating bends in metal pipes, or coil winding.
The tension rolling process begins by preparing the metal for its transformation. First, the metal is heated until it reaches the temperature required for malleability. Once the material is malleable, it is then cut into a desired length. Once the desired dimensions have been achieved, the metal is placed into a specially designed die.
The die contains several slots and channels which have been configured to create the desired shape. These channels will be filled with tensioning screws, which when tightened, will apply the necessary force to the metal. This force will cause the metal to be stretched and form into the desired shape. The tensioning screws must be adjusted accordingly, to make sure that the metal is not overstretched or bent at undesirable angles.
Once the metal has been stretched out to the desired shape and size, the tensioning screws are released and the metal is then allowed to cool. Once cooled, the metal is then finished off with grinding or polishing techniques. The finished product must have minimal warping and should have a desired texture or degree of brightness.
Tension rolling offers many advantages. The process is relatively fast and cost-efficient and can be used to create complex shapes. It also yields a product with a very high degree of accuracy and an overall good surface performance. Additionally, the process requires minimal labor compared to other rolling techniques.
The tension rolling process should only be used when necessary. Too much tension on the metal can cause the material to stretch too far, leading to a weakened structure. Additionally, the process is not suitable for all materials – it may damage some materials due to their lack of malleability.
Tension rolling is a useful process for customizing metal components for use in a variety of applications. It enables complex shapes to be formed, with a high degree of accuracy, in a relatively short period of time. Although the process is not suitable for all materials and must be handled with care, it can be a cost-effective way to shape and transform metal into a desired form.
