What is the heat treatment process of aircraft forgings?
The heat treatment process of aircraft forgings is to improve the mechanical properties, microstructure and heat resistance of the forgings. The following is the common heat treatment process steps for general aircraft forgings: Preheating: The forgings are first preheated in order to uniformly increase the temperature of the forgings so that they reach the temperature range suitable for subsequent treatment. Solution treatment: the forging is heated to a higher temperature, so that it reaches the solution temperature. The purpose of solution treatment is to dissolve the alloying elements in the forgings so that they are evenly distributed in the matrix, thereby improving the strength and toughness of the forgings. Quenching: After solution treatment, the forging needs to be cooled quickly to form a hard structure. Quenching can increase the hardness and strength of the forgings, however, because quenching will cause large residual stress in the forgings, it is necessary to carry out appropriate tempering treatment to relieve the stress. Tempering: Tempering refers to the reheating of the forgings after quenching, followed by an appropriate holding time and cooling process. Tempering can moderately reduce the hardness of forgings, improve the toughness and thermal fatigue resistance of forgings, and reduce the cracking and deformation caused by residual stress in use. Stabilization treatment: In some cases, forgings also need stabilization treatment, that is, insulation and uniform cooling at high temperatures. The stabilization treatment can eliminate the residual stress inside the forging and improve the stability and corrosion resistance of the forging. It should be noted that the specific heat treatment process will vary according to different forging materials, shapes and design requirements. Therefore, in practical applications, it is necessary to formulate and optimize the heat treatment process scheme according to the specific situation to ensure the best mechanical properties and organizational structure.
