Cold-extrusion and Composite Technology
The cold-extrusion and composite technology uses a combination of cold-extrusion and heat treatment methods to produce high-strength components and components with complex shapes, especially those with complicated internal passages. The process combines various techniques such as cold pressing, quenching, tempering and vacuum heat treatment to press, form and treat components simultaneously. Using the technology, the size accuracy, mechanical properties and metallurgical structure of the parts can be improved without the need for secondary machining. Additionally, the technology enables mass production of standard parts with low costs.
Cold-extrusion, also known as cold-forming or cold pressing, is a metal-forming technology that can be used to form components with complex shapes and high strength properties. The process utilizes extremely high force which can apply intense pressure to soften, shape and form metal into complex geometries. The cold-extrusion process starts with a shaped blank that is placed in a die and subjected to multiple cycles of extreme pressure. While the pressure is applied, the workpiece is slowly moved through the die, step-by-step, until it is completely formed into the desired shape. Cold-extrusions typically require a large press, as the pressures and forces reached during the cold-extrusion process can be up to 2000 tons.
Due to its limitations in size, strength, and complexity, often cold-extrusion is used in combination with heat treatment methods to produce complex components. Heat treatments, such as quenching, tempering and vacuum heat treatments, can further improve the size accuracy, strength and wear resistance of a component. By applying heat treatments to the workpiece, the grains of the metal are refined, uniformity of the walls are increased, and stress is relieved.
The cold-extrusion and composite technology is mainly used in aerospace, automotive, and other industrial applications. The process is suitable for producing various components with complex shapes, including knurled nuts, brake discs, and complex gear parts. Many aerospace components, such as rotary blades, fasteners, and flaps, benefit from the production process, as it provides high strength, complex internal structures, and superior corrosion resistance. In the automotive industry, the technology can be applied to produce connecting rods, camshafts, and cylinder heads.
Furthermore, the cold-extrusion and composite technology can provide cost savings in comparison to more traditional production methods. As the process combines a variety of techniques at once, components can be produced at high quantities with great efficiency, while the need for secondary machining and heat treatments can be eliminated. Additionally, the elimination of the need for secondary machining helps to reduce costs associated with material waste as well as labour.
In conclusion, the cold-extrusion and composite technology represents a cost-effective solution for producing high-strength components with complex shapes. The process utilizes a combination of cold-extrusion and heat treatment methods to achieve superior parts with improved size accuracy, strength, and wear resistance properties. The technology is applicable in various industries, including aerospace, automotive and general industrial applications, and can result in cost savings when compared to other production methods.
