Friction and Composite Forming
Friction and composite forming are two distinct technologies used in the manufacturing of components. Friction forming is the process of using a rotational tool, typically in a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) setup, to apply heat, pressure, and material flow in order to create parts. Composite forming utilizes two distinct materials combined together, such as metal and plastic, and then applies force to shape and strengthen the component.
Friction forming is a highly versatile forming technology that is often used for automotive, aerospace and scientific applications. The main benefits of friction forming include its low cost, fast delivery, repeatability and its ability to produce intricate parts with very little scrap. This technology is also often used in producing deep drawn bowls, shapes, and deep drawn
shots which can be intricately formed quickly and accurately.
In the process of friction forming, a heated rotational tool is used to compress and shape a material. This process draws the material into its shape and results in improved strength and a higher surface finish than other forming methods. Some materials, such as metals and composites, require a very high degree of heat in order to achieve the desired product. This means that special furnace equipment must be used in order to heat the material evenly and uniformly.
The second type of forming process is composite forming. This process involves combining two different materials into one product. This process requires some sort of bonding agent, such as an adhesive or brazing material, to be used in order to ensure that the two materials remain bonded. Composite forming is often used in aerospace and automotive applications for parts that require strength and stiffness. This process also results in a lighter weight component than traditional metal forming processes.
The composite forming process starts by combining the two materials together. The bonding agent is usually applied after the component has been placed in the desired shape. The component is then placed into a die and heated to a set temperature. This heating process softens the material and allows it to be shaped into a desired form. The component is then compressed using a press and a desired pressure. After the component has cooled and has hardened in the desired shape, the component can then be post-machined, if necessary.
Both friction and composite forming can be used to create complex parts with a high degree of accuracy. These processes provide a cost-effective way of creating components with a variety of shapes. Both are versatile processes that allow for parts of different material types, shapes, and sizes. Both processes will result in parts with highly durable surfaces, allowing for longer lasting components across a wide variety of industries.
