Molybdenum Machining: Полное руководство
Molybdenum machining is a challenging task due to the material's nature. It requires specialized processes and different CNC techniques to help achieve the desired results.
If you are willing to learn about the machining process of molybdenum and the important aspects that you must know. Read the guide below.
Understanding Molybdenum Metal
Molybdenum is not very commonly used like steel and aluminum. It is a refractory metal and is a good conductor of electricity. The melting point of molybdenum is 2623° C.
This material also offers high resistance against corrosion and a low coefficient of thermal expansion. It has high strength and can be used in applications that are high-stress.
Techniques in Molybdenum Machining
Molybdenum Machining uses different CNC techniques to achieve the desired details and shapes in the molybdenum components. Some of the techniques adopted for machining molybdenum are as follows:
Фрезерование с ЧПУ
Фрезерование с ЧПУ uses cutting tools that rotate and cut the material from the workpiece. It helps create components that have detailed features and complex geometries. The material molybdenum is hard and hence requires carbide cutting tools for the milling process.
The milling process of molybdenum is carried out at low speed as it helps reduce heat buildup. Moreover, the feed rate must be maintained optimally to help avoid tool wear.
During the process of milling, a coolant is applied so that overheating can be avoided and the tool life is improved.
Токарная обработка с ЧПУ
Токарная обработка с ЧПУ helps produce components of molybdenum that are cylindrical in shape. The workpiece rotates during the turning process, and the cutting tool stays in its position.
It helps to maintain precise control over the process of cutting, and carbide tools are opted to ensure clean cuts.
During the CNC turning process of molybdenum, the cooling systems are put in place so that heat can be prevented. The tool path and cutting speed are optimized to achieve a smooth surface finish.
Сверление с ЧПУ
Сверление с ЧПУ uses high-speed steel drills, and these drills allow the creation of holes of different depths and sizes. The CNC drilling process helps to drill along multiple axes so that precise holes with intricacy can be achieved.
Challenges in Machining Molybdenum
Molybdenum has impressive properties, but sometimes, the hardness and strength of this material turn out to be challenging for the machinist. Some challenges faced while machining molybdenum are as follows:
Brittleness
Molybdenum offers seamless hardness, and hence, sometimes cutting it could be a challenge. The traditional methods of machining, when used for cutting the molybdenum, make it difficult to achieve clean cuts.
Sometimes, cutting molybdenum could be extremely challenging and lead to tool wear. The brittle nature of molybdenum results in chips being produced, and this causes difficulty in machining.
The problem of brittleness can be resolved by using carbide-made cutting tools that help cut molybdenum effectively. Also, tools with sharp cutting edges help cut neat edges without any chip production.
Высокая температура плавления
Molybdenum has a high melting point, which can favor some applications, but at the same time, machining due to high melting points can be a challenge. Traditional methods of cooling during the process of machining can be insufficient, and the surface finish can be compromised.
In order to deal with the problem of high melting point during machining, coolants that are high performance should be opted for. The water-miscible coolants prove to be helpful to reduce heat.
You can also use a small amount of lubricant, which helps to minimize the coolant consumption, and also choose tools that are made of heat-resistant materials. Such tools are composed of cobalt-based alloys, which stay intact during high temperatures.
Common Grades of Molybdenum Alloy in Machining
Molybdenum has multiple applications and different grades. Each grade has its own properties and suitability for an application. Some of the common grades of machining are as follows:
Pure Molybdenum
Pure molybdenum consists of a very small amount of impurities and a major amount of molybdenum. It has excellent strength and doesn't corrode; it also offers a high melting point.
It is suitable for use in manufacturing furnace components, electrodes for electron beam welding, and crucibles.
TZM Molybdenum Alloy
TZM molybdenum has high strength and toughness. It consists of alloys like tantalum and zirconium. The addition of these two elements ensures to improvement in the creep resistance of molybdenum.
It is suitable for applications involving electrical contacts with high temperatures, engine nozzles for rockets, and gas turbine blades.
Molybdenum-Lanthanum Alloy
Molybdenum-lanthanum alloy helps reduce the wear of machining tools. It also improves the recrystallization of molybdenum and hence is opted for components that need precision. It is opted for aerospace components and semiconductor applications.
Surface Finishes for Machined Molybdenum Parts
Once the process of machining molybdenum is completed, the components may require additional finishing. Some of these options for surface finishing are as follows:
Полировка
The polishing process involves using abrasives, which help to smoothen the molybdenum component surfaces. It also helps to reduce the roughness and improves the finishing of the surface of the parts.
It is suitable for the parts that require high finished gloss and also enhances the functionality of the components.
Пескоструйная обработка
Sandblasting uses abrasive particles to blast the surface in order to create a texture to clean it. This process creates uniformity and also removes the contaminants from the surface of molybdenum. This process prepares the surface for further finishing processes.
Пассивация
Passivation treats the surface of molybdenum with a solution that has acid, which enhances the corrosion resistance. The process of passivation also removes contaminants and creates a layer of passive oxide.
This layer protects the component from oxidation and even enhances its durability when subjected to a corrosive environment.
Hard Chrome Plating
Hard chrome plating creates a chromium layer on the surface of molybdenum components. This layer gives the component improved hardness and resistance against corrosion and wear. The hard chrome plating makes the surface more durable.
Покрытие
Coating involves methods like CVD or PVS; the layer of coating improves the protection of the component, adding wear and corrosion resistance. It improves the performance of the components and helps them perform even in harsh environments.
Applications of Molybdenum CNC Machining
Molybdenum machined components are widely used for catering to various industries, and some of the applications of these components are discussed below:
High-Temperature Equipment: Molybdenum is highly suitable for furnace components and heat exchangers as it can withstand extreme heat.
Chemical Processing: It is highly corrosion resistant and hence is chosen for chemical plants to manufacture its fittings, pipes, and valves.
Wear-Resistant Components: Molybdenum is hard and hence is used in crushing machinery, mining equipment and tools for oil drilling.
Semiconductor Manufacturing: The chemical resistance and purity of molybdenum makes it suitable for semiconductor applications.
Gas Turbine Blades: It has high heat resistance, and machined molybdenum components are suitable for jet engines.
Weapon Systems: It offers wear resistance and reliability when chosen for weapon systems.
Start Your CNC Machining Molybdenum Project with DEK
As mentioned above, the molybdenum machining process could be challenging. If you are also looking forward to having services for machining molybdenum for your applications, contact us.
Мы в DEK ensure high-quality, precise, and affordable molybdenum components. We also sign an NDA with you; you can rest assured about the confidentiality of business information.
Заключение
The molybdenum machining process has a wide range of applications and properties, which makes it extremely suitable for CNC machining. However, there are some challenges, and those can be managed with efficiency.
