Chemical Processing

During the hot-forming process, titanium and its alloys develop an oxygen-contaminated surface recast layer or ‘alpha case’ which is hard and brittle, and can create a series of microcracks which will reduce the metal’s performance and its fatigue properties. This Alpha case layer must therefore be completely removed, firstly by cleaning and then acid-etching (nitric:hydrofluoric).

To ensure that Thermal Engineering remains at the forefront of this highly specialised process, we have invested in a brand new, fully automated chemical processing line which will be installed and commissioned during Q3 2021:-

Titanium Recast Layer/Alpha Case Removal

• Fully automated chemical processing line for etching post forming
  • Ultrasonic cleaning
  • Alpha case removal
  • Descaling
• Improved process repeatability
• Multiple batch processing
• Improved Safety features