Modern methods of preforming titanium alloys for forging aero engine vanes

Intermediate forming aimed at distributing the material volume contributes towards better utilization of the material, reducing the amount of energy necessary for heating and improving quality by near-net-shape geometries. A range of different forming operations exists for realizing material distribution. This paper gives an overview of the process technologies used for distributing the material in an intermediate forming stage in the closed die forging of aero engine vanes and also illustrates their application areas. The development of a single cross wedge rolling operation will save two upsetting operations and one extrusion operation. A considerable reduction in cycle times and in manufacturing costs is the result of the shortened process chain. Additionally, the number of ancillary processes, such as heating, adjustment and lubricant application are reduced as well.