Innovative manufacturing research on forming of la

Based on the successful demonstration of induction heating and near net shape forming of titanium alloys, the concept is to be extended to other armor materials. The success of the process derives from the ability to heat a narrow band of material to a point at which its formability increases without metallurgical damage. Standard metallurgical processes and the GleebleTM Thermo Mechanical Simulator will be used to characterize and validate the induction heating concept for other armor alloys by: developing high temperature material properties; and straining material at high temperature for subsequent room temperature evaluation. These results will be compared with those from representative welds to ensure a balanced process comparison. The proposed Phase 1 option will consider new coil designs and how the effects of variable thermal emissivity can be resolved for closed loop temperature control. The developed technology is expected to be of benefit to both the DoD and commercial sector who will both be able to reduce manufacturing costs and work in progress, while providing an alternate to skill sensitive welding. The development of the GleebleTM technology will be of particular interest to the energy sector.