EASYFORM · Laser-assisted metal spinning for an efficient and flexible processing of nickel- and titanium-alloys

Due to their high CO2-emissions, the aeronautics industry intends to produce more efficient and environmentally friendly turbine engines using high-strength alloys. As a decisive part of the supply chain, the EU metal spinning industry is increasingly requested to form these challenging materials. To keep quality demands and to stay competitive against new manufacturers in BRIC and other countries, metal spinning companies, which are mostly SMEs, strive for developing new technologies for the production of improved turbine components. One opportunity to meet these challenges is applying laser assistance in order to increase process efficiency, as well as deformation-rate and/or -degree (+25%) while avoiding intermediate annealing steps and thus reducing overall production time and costs by 50%. Hence a consortium of 3 metal spinning SMEs, 2 outstanding RTD-performers with specialized knowledge in laser-assisted forming and materials characterization, and 1 machine tool maker from 4 EU countries will develop laser-assisted metal spinning for an efficient and flexible processing of challenging Ni- and Ti-alloys. EasyForm is built on 1) a design of an industrial applicable laser processing head which is capable of being integrated in conventional spinning machines, 2) machining strategies for laser-assisted metal spinning of aerospace components made of Ti- and Ni-alloys, and 3) a guideline for quality control of components manufactured by the new technology. Subsequently, project results are going to be verified by the manufacture of selected demonstration parts and to be benchmarked regarding technical and economic aspects against competitive technologies. Finally, staff of SMEs is qualified/trained by specific instruction material. Dedicated dissemination activities and IP management will ensure a successful implementation of results into industrial application. Due to retrofitting of own machinery SMEs expect an increased turnover of 15-25% and ROI within 2 yrs.