Superplastic Forming
Superplastic Forming (SPF) is a process that brings solid crystalline materials, such as titanium and other metals, to a state of superplasticity where the flow stress of the material is low. Once the state of superplasticity is reached, pressure is applied to the metals to allow for complex forms.
Conventional Assembly requires fabrication of multiple parts, bolts, and increases inventory, labor, and cost, whereas Superplastic Forming eliminates weak points and reduces inventory.
Advantages of SPF Process
Superplastic Forming technology offers the potential to reduce the weight and cost of automotive structural components for advance vehicle applications.
- Reduces weight of the product by eliminating nuts, bolts and fasteners
- Reduces inventory by eliminating need for assembly
- Reduces overhead and labor costs by cutting out assembly and machining steps
- Allows for more complex structures and more advanced applications
- Final product does not suffer from springback or residual stresses
Applications
The process is increasingly being applied in the aerospace industry as a way of manufacturing very complex geometries. It is most beneficial for these industries because it is critical to reduce the weight in order to achieve higher speed or fuel efficiency.
- Aircraft frames and skins
- Complex shape parts: window and door frames, floor structures
- Propulsion and ducting systems
Related Markets:
Aerospace
RTI is the leading supplier of specialty metals for the aerospace industry and has an unbeatable range of manufacturing capabilities, product forms, and service offerings.
Defense
Technologies pioneered by RTI have made the defense industry more capable, deployable, and sustainable.
Energy
RTI International Metals is the sole company specializing in the energy market with in-house core competency in titanium and specialty metals. Get the focus, the dedicated thinking, and the market-specific innovation you need.
Medical
Titanium is resistant to attack by body fluids, has high strength and is compatible with MRI and CT procedures which makes it a useful material for medical devices.
Performance Sports
Titanium has attractive characteristics, such as high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, that are highly valuable in many different types of sports applications.
Contact RTI to see how this process can benefit your project.
Titanium
How can titanium or titanium alloys benefit your project?
