MANUFACTURING TUNGSTEN

With an acknowledged reputation as one of the world’s most experienced tungsten specialists, Wolfmet manufactures tungsten alloy components to the highest specifications and quality standards. Our processes are ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accredited, while for aerospace applications they are also AS9100 approved.

Because tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal, there isn’t a vessel that is capable of holding the molten liquid. Instead, the Wolfmet team carries out a powder metallurgy process which plays a significant role in the quality of the finished product. From accurately weighing raw materials and applying exacting temperatures at different stages, to precise machining and extensive quality control systems, attention to detail is key to ensuring finished tungsten alloy components meet the standards required by our customers:

• Powder mixing – Raw tungsten powder is mixed with other lower melting point metal powders such as nickel, copper or iron to achieve the desired grade, something which is determined by weight, application and industry standards
• Pressing – The powder mixture is pressed to bind it into a solid block. Various shapes and sizes are produced at this stage in line with the finished item requirements
• Forming – Basic machining known as forming is carried out to cut the compacted powder into pre-sintered shapes. This reduces the amount of material to be machined off after sintering, minimising material usage, costs and machining time
• Sintering – Formed parts are sintered in a furnace which converts the pressed powder into the solid composite metal alloy. Parts shrink by around 15% but no mass is lost, which increases the density of the material
• Machining – The sintered alloy is machined into the final parts using CNC machining centres, millers and lathes
• Quality control – Prior to dispatch, all parts are inspected for dimensional tolerances, traceability and density

Our process is flexible and responsive, so we are able to accommodate long runs or one-off creations. Wolfmet tungsten alloy can be supplied to meet customer specifications, or our team of experienced engineers can offer advice and guidance on mechanical design to fulfil customer requirements, however complex. For customers that prefer to carry out their own machining, Wolfmet tungsten alloy can be supplied as bars or blanks in rough condition, with a machining allowance of at least 3mm on all dimensions. To find out more, contact us today.