Extrusion Methods for Titanium Rods, Titanium Tubes, and Titanium Wires

On modern bi-directional extrusion presses, there are generally two extrusion shafts (the main extrusion shaft and the die shaft). During extrusion, the extrusion cylinder moves with the main extrusion shaft (referred to as the main shaft). At this time, the direction of the product flow is consistent with the movement direction of the main shaft but opposite to the relative movement direction of the die shaft.

In the extrusion process, the extrusion where there is no relative movement between the billet and the extrusion cylinder is called reverse extrusion. Reverse extrusion is suitable for large-diameter titanium tubes and difficult-to-extrude titanium rods and titanium wires. The choice of extrusion method depends on the stress and strain state of the metal in the extrusion cylinder during extrusion, the extrusion direction, and the type, shape, and size of the products.

There are many extrusion methods, which can be classified according to different characteristics. According to the classification of metal flow and deformation characteristics during extrusion, there are forward extrusion, reverse extrusion, and special extrusion. Special extrusion includes hydrostatic extrusion, continuous extrusion, lateral extrusion, combined extrusion, composite extrusion, cladding extrusion, skin extrusion, water-sealed extrusion, swaging, powder extrusion, semi-melt extrusion, and liquid extrusion. According to the temperature classification, there are hot extrusion, warm extrusion, and cold extrusion. Hot extrusion and cold extrusion are the two main branches of extrusion. In the metallurgical industry system, hot extrusion is mainly used, commonly referred to as extrusion; in the mechanical industry system, cold extrusion is used; warm extrusion developed relatively late and has a smaller application range.

The basic methods of extrusion are forward extrusion and reverse extrusion.

Characteristics of Forward Extrusion:

1. Metal Flow Direction: The direction of metal flow is the same as the movement direction of the extrusion shaft.
2. Relative Movement: There is significant relative movement between the billet and the extrusion cylinder, requiring greater extrusion force.
3. Convenience and Simplicity: The process is easy to operate, and the tooling is simple.

Forward extrusion is the most basic extrusion method. Due to its mature technology, simple process operation, and great production flexibility, it has become one of the most widely used methods in the processing of titanium and titanium alloys, aluminum and aluminum alloys, copper and copper alloys, and steel materials.

Characteristics of Reverse Extrusion:

1. Metal Flow Direction: The direction of metal flow is opposite to the movement direction of the extrusion shaft.
2. Low Friction and Force: There is less external friction during extrusion, requiring less extrusion force.
3. High Yield and Lower Production Efficiency: The product yield is higher, but production efficiency is lower.
   

In summary, the selection of extrusion methods, including forward extrusion and reverse extrusion, depends on various factors such as metal flow characteristics, deformation characteristics, and product requirements. The continuous development and refinement of these methods enable the production of high-quality Grade 2 Titanium Wire, Titanium Rods, Titanium Tubes, and Titanium Alloy Forgings, meeting the needs of industries that demand high-performance materials. These materials are essential in both aerospace applications and Medical Grade Titanium products, ensuring they meet the stringent standards required in these fields.