Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research (IC&SR) , IIT Madras
Coaxially Guided Modular Apparatus For High-temperature Multiaxial Formability Evaluation Of Magnesium Alloy Sheets
Technology Category/Market
Category- Assistive, Test Equipment and Design Manufacturing
Industry Classification:
Materials Testing and Development; Metal Forming and Fabrication; Automotive and Aerospace
Applications:
Formability Evaluation of Magnesium Alloy Sheets; Material Development for Lightweight Structures and Precise Automated Testing and Data Analysis.
Market report:
The global high-temperature materials testing market size was valued at USD 1.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 2.8 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 6.9%.
Whereas, the global Magnesium alloys market valued at USD 2.46 Billion in 2024 is projected to grow to USD 7.45 Billion by 2031 with a CAGR of 6.40%
Problem Statement
- Magnesium alloys, being lightweight and strong, are vital for industries like automotive and aerospace but require specialized formability testing for high-temperature applications.
- Conventional formability testing apparatuses are limited and fail to perform precise multiaxial tests, especially in vacuum conditions.
- Further, misalignment errors, inability to handle high temperatures (up to 700°C), and lack of modularity for diverse tests are challenges associated with conventional methods.
- There is a need for a coaxially guided, modular apparatus with a vacuum environment, automated controls, and precise testing that addressed all previous limitations effectively.
Technology
- The apparatus evaluates high-temperature multiaxial formability of magnesium alloy sheets, addressing challenges like HCP structure and reactivity.
- Integrated resistance heating furnace (up to 700°C) and vacuum system allow for testing in controlled vacuum, essential for magnesium alloys.
- Interchangeable punches/dies in a modular holder enable various multiaxial tests on 70x70mm to 100x100mm sheets (1-3mm thick).
- A coaxially guided system, drive motors, and gearbox ensure controlled movement, minimizing misalignment during testing.
- PID logic controller and data acquisition system allow automated parameter control and data collection for detailed analysis.
Key Features/Value Proposition
- Compared to conventional general formability testing equipment, this invention is specifically designed to address the unique challenges posed by magnesium alloys, such as their HCP structure, reactivity at high temperatures, and the need for vacuum conditions.
- The modular design with interchangeable punches and dies allows for a wider range of multiaxial formability tests with different profiles, providing greater versatility compared to fixed-configuration equipment.
- Conventional equipment often lacks the capability to perform multiaxial formability tests, particularly in vacuum conditions, which is crucial for accurate assessment of magnesium alloys at elevated temperatures.
- The coaxially guided system minimizes concentricity and misalignment errors, ensuring accurate and repeatable testing conditions, which is often lacking in conventional equipment.
- The integrated PID logic controller and data acquisition system enable automatic control of testing parameters and comprehensive data collection, providing a more comprehensive and automated solution compared to manual or semi-automatic systems.
Questions about this Technology?
Contact for Licensing
Research Lab
Prof. Sushanta Kumar Panigrahi
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Intellectual Property
- IITM IDF Ref 2734
- IN 557367 Patent Granted
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 4
Technology Validated in Lab