ADVANCES IN MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY FOR TITANIUM AIRCRAFT STRUCTURES

The article describes several ongoing specific programs that are expected to bring about substantial economies in the manufacture of titanium parts. The programs include production of a fuselage brace and an arrestor hook support fitting with the HIP process; production of a front wing beam and longeron parts with an isothermal shape rolling process; using the HIP process and EB welding to fabricate nacelle frames; establishment of design properties for CORONA-5; improving hot workability via rare earth additions; and production of sandwich panels and scarf nozzles.