Superplastic Forming (SPF) Press Systems
Accudyne is an industry leader in the design and manufacturing of press systems that use Superplastic Forming technology. Our high-temperature SPF systems allow manufacturers to create complex, one-piece structures that are lighter, stronger, and more efficient than components produced through traditional fabrication methods.
Accudyne Engineering manufactures custom Superplastic Forming press systems specialized for forming titanium, aluminum, and Inconel alloys into sophisticated geometries. These systems feature operating temperatures up to 1800°F, precision gas management, and multi-zone temperature profiling to support uniform heat distribution and near-net-shape accuracy for critical aerospace and defense components.
Material Superplasticity
Leveraging extreme elongation properties in titanium at approximately 1750°F and aluminum at approximately 975°F to form complex geometries.
Precision Gas Management
Proportional control valves support programmable argon gas forming rates and precise pressure ramp control.
Thermal Integrity
Fully enclosed work areas with retractable insulated heat shields help maximize efficiency and operator safety.
Integrated Stress Relief
The elevated temperatures used during SPF can help stress-relieve finished parts during production.
Engineering the Future of Aerospace Fabrication
Traditional fabrication often involves cutting, grinding, fastening, and joining multiple components. Accudyne’s SPF technology offers a more efficient alternative by using material superplasticity to form deep, intricate shapes in a single controlled process.
Customized SPF Infrastructure for Exotic Metals
We offer both down-acting and up-acting press constructions, with each system engineered around your specific part size, alloy, and cycle requirements.
- High-Temperature Operation: Continuous operating capability up to 1800°F.
- Advanced Platen Materials: Options for metallic platens such as RA330, RA333, and Supertherm, as well as ceramic materials such as fused silica.
- Multi-Zone Temperature Profiling: Precision multi-zone heating supports better uniformity across the full forming area.
- Advanced PLC Controls: Computer control systems with real-time trending, data collection, and manufacturing network interfaces.
- Safety & Compliance: Systems built to recognized national industrial codes and designed to support OSHA-compliant operation.
Process Control Upgrades – Accudyne Hydraulic Presses
Specialized for High-Performance Alloys
Accudyne’s SPF systems are engineered for materials that exhibit superplasticity at elevated temperatures, allowing manufacturers to produce sophisticated parts such as hollow engine blades, nacelles, and structural fuselage components.
Titanium Alloys
A primary material choice for aerospace structural and engine components that demand high strength and low weight.
Advanced Aluminum
Specially formulated alloys for lightweight aerospace and automotive structures.
Stainless Steel & Inconel
High-strength, heat-resistant materials for defense and specialized industrial applications.
Complex Aerospace Structures
One-piece pylon panels, nacelles, and engine firewalls that reduce reliance on rivets and welds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a material superplastic?
Superplasticity is the ability of certain materials, such as select titanium and aluminum alloys, to undergo extreme elongation at elevated temperatures without localized thinning or failure.
Can Accudyne SPF presses also perform hot forming?
Yes. Our systems are often engineered to support both Superplastic Forming and Hot Forming processes depending on the application and part requirements.
What material handling options are available for SPF?
We provide custom material handling solutions that can include automated lower platen shuttles, tooling change support, and other engineered systems to improve part removal and workflow efficiency.
Ready to Review Your SPF Project Requirements?
If you have established force, temperature, and gas pressure requirements, our engineers can review your technical specifications and help determine the right SPF system for your application.