Skip to main content

Optimized Alloy 625 Forming Practices in Use at Shipyard

For Immediate Release: Mar 17, 2009

Thick-sectioned Alloy 625 plate was selected for the fabrication of several critical components on CVN 78. This material is known to be difficult to form, particularly at room temperature. This Navy Metalworking Center (NMC) project was initiated to identify optimal Alloy 625 forming practices for these applications and to identify maximum forming limits. The goal is to demonstrate that it is possible to achieve very large cold deformations in the fabrication of various components without impairing the mechanical/physical properties. A secondary objective is to document the corrosion performance of components and weld interfaces. Fabrication of these components is planned early in the production cycle for CVN 78; therefore, the forming practices resulting from this project are being implemented into the fabrication process.

Accomplishments/Payoff

Process Improvement:
A test matrix was developed where several forming variables were evaluated to characterize the forming parameters of this material. Variables included plate mechanical properties, bending radii and surface conditions. Forming tests were conducted on NMC’s 850-ton forming press using tooling fabricated for these tests.

Implementation and Technology Transfer:
The end-user shipyard, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News (NGSB-NN), has implemented lessons learned from this project in the fabrication of key components of CVN 78. The shipyard reports that these lessons learned include forming limits, welding preparation, drawing improvements and preparation for blast and coat.

Expected Benefits:

  • Development of proven forming procedures for Alloy 625 will expedite fabrication of CVN 78 components
  • Prevent potentially significant schedule delays during the construction of critical components of the carrier
  • Prevent or minimize start-up problems that could arise due to the cold workability of this material
  • Validate corrosion performance of the components and weld interfaces in seawater to support a 50-year service life

Participants

  • PMS 378 – Future Aircraft Carriers Program Office
  • Naval Sea Systems Command
  • Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News
  • Ed Hibner, Consultant
  • Navy Metalworking Center

About the Office of Naval Research

The Department of the Navy’s Office of Naval Research provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps’ technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 55 countries, 634 institutions of higher learning and nonprofit institutions, and more than 960 industry partners. ONR, through its commands, including headquarters, ONR Global and the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., employs more than 3,800 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel.