Recent advancements in the rolling of tungsten plates could significantly influence sectors ranging from nuclear energy to semiconductor manufacturing. A groundbreaking study led by WANG Guangda from Advanced Technology & Materials Co., Ltd in Beijing, has employed numerical simulation techniques to explore the rolling processes of large tungsten billets. This research, published in ‘Fenmo yejin jishu’—translated as ‘Journal of Materials Processing Technology’—offers insights that could reshape the production methodologies for this critical refractory metal.
Tungsten is renowned for its high melting point and exceptional strength, making it an indispensable material in high-performance applications such as nuclear fusion reactors and spallation neutron sources. The ability to manipulate and refine tungsten plates through rolling processes is essential for enhancing their properties. WANG’s study utilized DEFORM software to simulate the rolling of tungsten plates and analyze how different rolling modes impact the material’s integrity.
One of the most striking findings from the research is the difference in damage distribution between one-way and cross rolling methods. WANG noted, “In one-way rolling, the serious damage area is primarily located at the side edges of the billets, making them prone to cracking. In contrast, cross rolling leads to a more uniform damage distribution.” This crucial insight highlights the potential for cross rolling to produce more reliable tungsten plates, which could be vital for applications where structural integrity is paramount.
Additionally, the study revealed intriguing patterns in strain behavior during the rolling process. The strain curves for cross rolling exhibited a distinctive pattern, reaching a maximum before declining to a minimum, with a smaller difference between maximum values compared to one-way rolling. This finding suggests that cross rolling may offer a more controlled deformation process, which could be advantageous for manufacturers looking to optimize the mechanical properties of tungsten plates.
The implications of WANG’s research extend beyond academic interest; they could have significant commercial impacts. As industries increasingly turn to advanced materials to meet the demands of modern technology, the ability to produce high-quality tungsten plates through optimized rolling techniques may enhance the performance and longevity of components used in energy systems and electronic devices.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights gleaned from this study could pave the way for more efficient manufacturing processes, ultimately leading to better-performing materials that meet the rigorous demands of high-tech applications. With the global push for sustainable energy solutions, advancements in materials science such as these are not just academic; they are critical to the future of energy innovation.
For those interested in diving deeper into this research, it can be accessed through the publication ‘Fenmo yejin jishu’ or by visiting the website of WANG Guangda’s affiliation at Advanced Technology & Materials Co., Ltd.
