Retech Systems LLC, Ukiah, Calif., reports that, after years of research and development between Retech and partner Ti-Solutions GmbH of Germany, Retech has been granted patents for a hybrid plasma-arc melting plus cold-wall induction system for titanium aluminides. The single-operation process converts raw materials into ingots that exhibit excellent homogeneity and a fine crystalline structure. This system solves a number of the typical issues associated with conventional melting and, ultimately, the atomization of titanium aluminide powders.
On May 18 at the ITA Europe 2017 conference in Amsterdam, Retech engineers will present “Advances in the Systems and Processes for the Production of Gamma Titanium Aluminide Bars and Powder.” The paper will focus on the successful system and process development for ingots with lengths up to 1000 mm and diameters 53, 80, 100, and 200 mm. Additionally, the company’s experience with powder production equipment and associated processes for selected gamma titanium aluminide alloys will be presented.
All developments have focused on cost-effective production for both product forms and, as such, an economic analysis will also be discussed.
“This is another example of Retech’s commitment to developing real, viable solutions to the problems of today while being focused on tomorrow,” says Rob Haun, Director of Product Development. “These systems and the process knowledge further support our efforts to facilitate the continued implementation of titanium aluminides in markets from jet engines to automotive turbochargers.”
Retech, a Seco Warwick Group company, actively works with partners and customers to develop equipment and process solutions to meet and exceed expectations; this includes upstream elements as well as downstream components.
