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Aerospace: Machining titanium quickly and safely

By Guest Author,

Added 01 August 2017

Walter is improving titanium machining with special tools. By Dirk Masur

Tübingen-based specialist Walter's Xpress range for the aerospace industry is made to measure for the exacting requirements of the aerospace industry.  In particular, their solid carbide tools with customer-specific dimensions are available for delivery within two to a maximum of three weeks. An innovative new tool coating and tool technology ensure that tool life is more than doubled in some cases.

 

In the aerospace industry, things are done a little differently in comparison to other sectors. Weight plays a pivotal role, and every gram less counts. It is ultimately a product's weight that determines its profitability, rather than part and component prices. No wonder then that titanium is enjoying considerable growth and popularity in this sector. This is the case especially for structural components for which high strength also matters. Typical examples are doors and door frame surroundings, landing gear supports, undercarriage struts or landing flap tracks. Titanium is also corrosion- and temperature-resistant.

 

However, manufacturers of aircraft for civil aviation in particular are finding themselves increasingly subject to the pressures of a series manufacturer, as is familiar for example from the automotive industry. Up until now, Boeing, Airbus, and to a lesser extent Bombardier, have mainly shared the market between themselves. Meanwhile, new competitors from China and Russia are preparing to enter the market. The pressure for manufacturing to become as cost-effective as possible is therefore increasing. Walter is making an important contribution in this respect with the Xpress Aerospace range.

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