The aerospace industry demands precision, durability, and performance from every component used in aircraft. High-temperature metals, such as Inconel, titanium, and stainless steel, are essential materials for aerospace fabrication due to their ability to withstand extreme heat and stress. To shape these advanced materials into complex components such as engine nacelles and exhaust systems, specialised forming and welding techniques are required.
Advanced Forming Techniques
One of the most innovative forming methods used in aerospace fabrication is hydroforming. This process utilises high-pressure hydraulic fluid to press metal into complex shapes within a die, allowing for the production of intricate and lightweight components with minimal seams and welds. Hydroforming is the most efficient method of deep draw forming intricate aerospace pressings. MSM has both Saab and Asea-type systems with a maximum envelope of 40”. Using this process, MSM has repeatedly demonstrated a specialist ability to one-piece form components in titanium and inconel, which historically may have been made from a number of separate components. Another cutting-edge technique is bulge forming, where internal pressure expands a metal blank into a predefined shape. These methods not only improve precision but also enhance the structural integrity and aerodynamic performance of aerospace parts.
Precision Welding for High-Performance Components
Given the stringent requirements of aerospace applications, traditional welding methods often fall short in ensuring the necessary strength and durability. MSM’s NADCAP approved laser cutting and laser welding facility includes the newest 5 axis TRUMPF 7040 LASER.
This machine utilises the very latest in industrial laser technology. Incorporated into a large working capacity and highly efficient production centre the TRUMPF 7040 is ideally suited to laser cutting and laser welding high strength, heat resistant metals as used in the aerospace and other high technology industries.
A key feature of the machine is the fact that the solid state laser beam is guided through fiber cable making it more accurate, more consistent, faster and more efficient than the CO2 equivalent. Having interchangeable quick-change heads it can perform high speed (up to 40m/min), high precision (<0.1mm positional and < 0.03mm repeatability) and high efficiency laser cutting and laser welding of the most complex 3D components. MSM has been a trusted, stable supplier of complex fabricated components, utilising cost-disruptive technology to deliver precision-engineered solutions for leading aerospace OEMs and Primes. If you have a component which may be suited to any of the above methods, then please contact our team.
