The world would be a much different place if it wasn’t for the huge array of different metals in existence. You can find a massive range of resources in a multitude of forms to match countless uses. For example, you could choose alloy 90 nickel round bar or go for grade 2 titanium plate. It all comes down to which material will provide the characteristics you need and which form will be best for you to use.
Creating bars
Metal bars are especially popular for many applications. There are a number of different ways to create them. For example, manufacturers often roll steel or use casting. However, one of the most popular options is extrusion. We want to look at it here so you know how it works and the advantages.
The basic idea with extrusion is you begin with a billet of metal. It goes into a container with a die at one end with an opening in. At the other end is another opening to insert a ram. Applying pressure to the ram forces the billet forward so it comes into contact with the die. Part of it will go through the opening, creating an extruded profile.
Different methods
There are a number of different ways to do extrusion. Generally there are two broad categories; direct and indirect. The first is also known as forward extrusion. It gets this name because the ram moves in the same direction as you are extruding the profile. The second is the opposite, with the two moving in opposing directions. As a result it is often known as indirect.
In a number of situations the process will involve the use of several different dies. The billet will go through first to make an extruded profile. This will then go through a die with a smaller opening. The process can repeat until the bar is the right diameter.
On top of this you have hot or cold drawn extrusion. They use the direct or indirect processes, but the first requires manufacturers to heat the billet first. Heating is not necessary for the latter. In terms of alloy 90 nickel round bar and other nickels, the high heat resistance means cold drawing is the best option.
What are the benefits?
Extrusion is a common practice because it offers a range of fantastic benefits. For starters, it is relatively inexpensive and can have low costs per part.
By its nature the process can also be continuous. All it needs here is to ensure the billet is long enough and the ram can push it through the die. This can also save on costs and result in very high production volumes.
The extrusion method also obtains a good surface finish with bars. As long as the opening in the die is in good condition, the bars can have a smooth finish with few flaws.
Cold extrusion has a very impressive benefit. Here there will be little impact on the mechanical properties of the material. The bar can retain the strength, durability, and more.
Finally, the process is quite flexible. You can adapt the opening in the die to suit various needs. For example, it can be round, square, or even hexagonal. As we said above, the diameter can vary too. It can provide a huge array of options for end users.
Speak to us if you need alloy 90 nickel round bar
At Brindley Metals we take quality very seriously. We have built our reputation on supplying leading resources that are fantastic for a huge array of applications. As part of this we choose manufacturers with care, only working with proven experts. We can pass on the benefits to our clients in terms of supplying reliable materials.
So, if you need alloy 90 nickel round bar, speak to us. We can also arrange processing for you if you want things like polishing, cutting, and more.